Book Review: Only: The Bird Who Liked Being Alone by Airlie Anderson

*I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Title: Only: The Bird Who Liked Being Alone
Author: Airlie Anderson
Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers (distributed by Hachette Book Group Canada)
Publication Date: February 4, 2024
ISBN: 9780316409612

Synopsis:
Only likes quiet time, and they definitely like being alone. All the other birds are too loud and too rough! Only decides to create a peaceful space that’s just for them, but when a friend shows up wanting to try some quiet time too, the two birds must figure out a way to be sure no one feels left out.

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This brightly coloured, simple book explores the feelings of one bird in his family who doesn’t love the noise and socialization that comes in being in such a large group, but instead prefers the quiet of solitude. The bird, Only, enjoys activities he can do alone, and is happy to sit out the group activities, opting to read or write instead. The birds in his family thing that he’s lonely when he chooses to be alone, when in fact, he finds joy in the time by himself. When he creates a space where he can read, create, or listen to music, one of the other birds gets a bit curious. Through Only, Squawky learns the value of quiet time and taking a moment to pause and have calm in the day.

This story shows young readers that there is a place for everyone. Not everyone is outgoing or social in the same way. Some prefer quiet company or time in solitude to recharge and feel good. The world needs introverted and extraverted birds in it. With is soft, but bright colours, children can easily learn the value of loud, group play time, as well as quite, introspective time. Not all activities have to be done together, just as not all activities need to be completed alone. There is a time and a place for both, and both are equally accepted and can be enjoyed by all. Only teaches little readers to see the value in both experiences and to keep an open mind to try something different, even if it’s not their natural inclination.

Happy reading!