Brian is visually impaired. When he receives a parakeet for his birthday, he names it Scratchy because that’s how the bird feels on his hand. Brian’s older brother, Kevin, carelessly leaves the front door open, and Scratchy flies away. By working together the boys get Scratchy to come home. The simple story credibly introduces several themes: sibling rivalry, dealing with a disability, and the loss of a pet. Ages 6 and up
© 2000
Audience: Children