Synopses & Reviews
For fans of Jennifer Holm (
Penny from Heaven, Turtle in Paradise), a heartfelt and unforgettable middle-grade novel about an irresistible girl and her family, tragic change, and the healing power of love and friendship. In 1972 home is a cozy nest on Cape Cod for eleven-year-old Naomi “Chirp” Orenstein, her older sister, Rachel; her psychiatrist father; and her dancer mother. But then Chirp’s mom develops symptoms of a serious disease, and everything changes.
Chirp finds comfort in watching her beloved wild birds. She also finds a true friend in Joey, the mysterious boy who lives across the street. Together they create their own private world and come up with the perfect plan: Escape. Adventure. Discovery.
Nest is Esther Ehrlich’s stunning debut novel. Her lyrical writing is honest, humorous, and deeply affecting. Chirp and Joey will steal your heart. Long after you finish Nest, the spirit of Chirp and her loving family will stay with you.
Review
"A poignant, insightful story of family crisis and the healing power of friendship." Kirkus Reviews, Starred
Review
"A stunning debut, with lyrical prose and superbly developed characters....[Readers] will savor Nest and reflect on it long after its conclusion." School Library Journal, Starred
Review
"Chirp’s first-person voice is believable; her poignant earnestness is truly heartrending. Ehrlich writes beautifully, constructing scenes with grace and layers of telling detail and insight." The Horn Book
Review
“Nest sings with heart and emotion. Simply gorgeous.” Jennifer L. Holm, New York Times bestselling author of Turtle in Paradise
About the Author
Esther Ehrlich was born and raised in Boston and spent childhood summers on Cape Cod. She graduated from Vassar College. She lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her family. Nest is her first novel.