"Wonderfully reassuring for fledglings of any species" - Kirkus Reviews

Recommended by Children's Librarians at the New York City Public Libraries

Description: Why should a contented creature leave home? And by flying? But as Mama and papa tell Robin about the ways of his kind - about finding the next site, gathering grass and moss, carrying the mud, and molding the nest - Robin knows that he has to try. Then Mama says the magic words: "We'll be right behind you."

Kirkus reviews writes: "Wonderfully reassuring for anxious little fledglings of any species."

"A sympathetic tale about the travails of growing up seen through the eyes of a reluctant baby robin ... Atkins's compassionate story addressed the diametrically opposing emotions - the inexorable progression toward independence and the desire to cling to the familiar - that children experience as they grow.  Whitman's watercolor collages, awash in vibrant hues of green and blue, are infused with warmth. Layered bits of torn paper give the full-bleed illustrations depth and texture while intriguing perspectives...add strong visual appeal...an author's note provides further factual information on the habits of robins. "

Suitable Age/Stage:  Parents with children who are beginning to do things on their own, spending time away from Mom and Dad with varying degrees of separation anxiety, will find this book appropriate as a way to encourage independence.  The overall message is that it's safe to risk with Mom and Dad right behind you.