South

A little bird wakes to find his flock has already flown south without him, and an unlikely friendship with Mooch the cat helps him find his way home.

For the child who feels big feelings about being left behind, this wordless story sits with the ache of being lost — and the relief of being helped.

• Big idea: Friendship can cross boundaries you'd never expect, and being lost isn't the same as being alone.
• Vibes: Quiet, tender, a little melancholy, ultimately hopeful.

• respond well to wordless storytelling they narrate themselves
• are working on understanding feelings like loneliness and relief
• enjoy stories about unlikely friendships
• like to study pictures closely for clues to the story

• Story & problem-solving: How did the little bird realize his family had already left?
• Feelings & empathy: How do you think the bird felt when he woke up all alone?
• Imagination: Since this book has no words, what do you think Mooch and the bird might be saying to each other?
• Real-life connection: Have you ever felt lost or left behind, like the little bird?
• Feelings & empathy: Why do you think Mooch decided to help the bird instead of just watching him go?