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The Absence of Sparrows

By Kurt Kirchmeier
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3.58 goodreads logo

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Check link for latest rating. ( 450 ratings, 110 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Absence of Sparrows by Kurt Kirchmeier follows the story of eleven-year-old Ben as his town is overrun by a mysterious plague that turns people into statues. As Ben grapples with the transformed world around him, he is also dealing with family struggles and the need to keep hope alive amidst uncertainty and danger. This poignant tale explores themes of resilience, friendship, and the power of belief during challenging times.
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Format: Paperback / softback
$5300

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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you're intrigued by stories that blend elements of mystery and magic with heartfelt themes of family and friendship. It's perfect for young readers who appreciate imaginative tales with compelling characters and a touch of the supernatural.

Book Hero thinking about your next read

Stranger Things meets Alfred Hitchcock in this haunting coming-of-age novel about a plague that brings the world to a halt, and one boy's belief that his town's missing sparrows can save his family.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description
Stranger Things meets The Stand in this haunting coming-of-age novel about a plague that brings the world to a halt -- and the boy who believes that his town's missing sparrows can save his family.

In the small town of Griever's Mill, eleven-year-old Ben Cameron is expecting to finish off his summer of relaxing and bird-watching without a hitch. But everything goes wrong when dark clouds roll in.

Old Man Crandall is the first to change -- human one minute and a glass statue the next. Soon it's happening across the world. Dark clouds fill the sky and, at random, people are turned into frozen versions of themselves. There's nowhere to run, nowhere to hide, and no one knows how to stop it.

With his mom on the verge of a breakdown, and his brother intent on following the dubious plans put forth by a nameless voice on the radio, Ben must hold out hope that his town's missing sparrows will return with everyone's souls before the glass plague takes them away forever.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The Absence of Sparrows by Kurt Kirchmeier is praised for its powerful storytelling, resonating with readers through its focus on personal heroism and community protection. The audiobook's narrator is noted for bringing emotional depth to the story of a gripping and creepy plague narrative. Reviews highlight its fresh take on the post-apocalyptic genre, engaging plot, and haunting atmosphere reminiscent of Stephen King's style. The book is described as thought-provoking and difficult to put down, leaving a lasting impression on its audience.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780316450904

Publisher: Little, Brown & Company

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 28 May 2020

Country: United States

Imprint: Little, Brown Young Readers

Audience: Children

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 28.0mm

Width: 130.0mm

Height: 192.0mm

Weight: 293g

Pages: 384

Collections

Children's Books Children’s, Teenage and Educational Kurt Kirchmeier Young Adult

About the Author

Kurt Kirchmeier is a Saskatchewan-based writer who has always been drawn to books with heart and a strong sense of mystery and wonder. He has a soft spot for speculative fiction and coming-of-age stories. When he isn't reading or writing, he enjoys spending time outdoors and connecting with nature. He's an avid photographer, and has a particular fondness for birds.

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