Bird Child and Other Stories

Bird Child and Other Stories by Patricia Grace offers a captivating collection of narratives that elegantly meld the mythical and the modern, reflecting on the rich culture and contemporary life of the Maori people. Grace, one of Aotearoa’s most esteemed fiction writers, traverses through time and space with her evocative prose, inviting readers into the enchanting tapestry of Maori storytelling.

Each story in this collection is a masterful blend of past and present, where the lines between reality and mythology blur into a seamless narrative. The eponymous story, Bird Child, transports readers to Te Kore, the void before the world began, capturing the essence of Maori cosmology with a poignantly personal touch. The formidable goddess Mahuika, Keeper of Fire, is brought to life not only as a mythic figure but also as a tender mother and friend, showcasing Grace's ability to humanise the divine.

Grace's own childhood experiences resonate through the character of Mereana, whose youthful adventures are depicted with vivid authenticity. The humour and warmth of familial bonds are portrayed exquisitely in the tale of a widower’s comedic yet heartfelt attempts to raise his seven spirited daughters, filled with Grace’s trademark wit and vibrant dialogue.

Each story within the collection is infused with the timeless wisdom, the emotional depth, and the cultural richness that have become the hallmarks of Grace's writing. Through her artful storytelling, Grace moves fluidly across decades and landscapes, capturing the beauty and complexity of Maori life with tenderness and charm.

"Grace's stories make a shining and enduring place formed of the brilliant weave of Maori oral storytelling." – Joy Harjo

In Bird Child and Other Stories, Grace invites readers to:

Fly Bird, fly Child, in every direction.
Know what there is to know of everything terrestrial,
Of all that has been laid out by Tane-nui-a-Rangi.
Fly high. Fly high.
Know all that is celestial.
Attain the uncountable stars.