White Bird: A Novel

Ages 8 to 12, Grades 3 to 7

Now a major motion picture starring Helen Mirren and Gillian Anderson!

Read the novelized version of the celebrated New York Times bestselling story of kindness and unrelenting courage in a time of war--inspired by the blockbuster phenomenon Wonder.

Sara Blum lives an idyllic life with her adoring parents in Vichy France. But her world comes crashing down when the Nazi occupation separates the family and forces the young Jewish girl into hiding. Her classmate Julien and his family will risk everything to ensure her survival, and, together, Sara and Julien manage to find beauty in a secret world of their creation. 

First published as a graphic novel and now a major motion picture starring Helen Mirren and Gillian Anderson, R. J. Palacio’s unforgettable story demonstrates the power of kindness to change hearts, build bridges, and even save lives in the darkest of times. 

Includes an 8-page photo insert and a discussion guide.

Story Locale:France

About the Author

R.J. Palacio is the author of the #1 New York Times bestseller Wonder, which has sold over 15 million copies worldwide. The book's message inspired the Choose Kind movement and has been embraced by readers around the world, with the book published in over 50 languages. Wonder was made into a blockbuster movie starring Julia Roberts, Owen Wilson, and Jacob Tremblay. 

Palacio’s other acclaimed books include 365 Days of Wonder: Mr. Browne’s Book of Precepts, Auggie & Me: Three Wonder Stories, the picture book We’re All Wonders, and her new novel Pony, an instant New York Times bestseller and named one of the best books of the year by the Wall Street Journal.

Palacio lives in Brooklyn with her husband, two sons, and two dogs. 

Author Residence: Brooklyn, NY

Author Hometown: Queens, NY