Publisher's Synopsis
Though written for children, this book will appeal to pet lovers of all ages. It tells the story of Jake, an 11-year-old boy who adopts Little Jimmy, a budgie bird, born without wings. Jake learns to help Little Jimmy live and feel like a very special bird. Later, a rescued baby chick is literally dumped into Jake's hands. "Thing," as Jake originally names him, soon insists on his own name, becoming "Louie." Eventually Big Louie grows into a huge and very smart raven. Though he didn't want the raven at first, Jake soon realizes that Big Louie has become an important part of the family who comes to the rescue when Little Jimmy gets into dangerous situations. One adventure follows another and the three become fast friends who really love each other. Author Ian Moore-Morrans had ample experience raising his own Jimmy, a cockatiel, from newly-hatched to adulthood. Ian has used that knowledge in portraying realistic characterizations of both birds, including intelligence, comic actions, dependence and independence, plus an ability to "talk" and a knack for finding a very special place within a family. Co-author Gayle Moore-Morrans, also Ian's wife and editor, has added her own touch to the story, giving a spiritual dimension to Jake's family and his decisions in caring for and loving his pets. For that special "kid's touch," Ian and Gayle invited two of their great-grandchildren to collaborate on Jake, Little Jimmy & Big Louie. Grandson Leland German was their age-appropriate consultant and Granddaughter Hannah German served as the illustrator.
