Nest

For fans of Jennifer Holm (*Penny from Heaven, Turtle in Paradise*), a heartfelt and unforgettable middle-grade novel about an irresistible girl and her family, tragic change, and the healing power of love and friendship. In 1972 home is a cozy nest on Cape Cod for eleven-year-old Naomi “Chirp” Orenstein, her older sister, Rachel; her psychiatrist father; and her dancer mother. But then Chirp’s mom develops symptoms of a serious disease, and everything changes.

   Chirp finds comfort in watching her beloved wild birds. She also finds a true friend in Joey, the mysterious boy who lives across the street. Together they create their own private world and come up with the perfect plan: Escape. Adventure. Discovery.

*   Nest* is Esther Ehrlich’s stunning debut novel. Her lyrical writing is honest, humorous, and deeply affecting. Chirp and Joey will steal your heart. Long after you finish *Nest,* the spirit of Chirp and her loving family will stay with you.

**Praise for *Nest*:

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"A poignant, insightful story of family crisis and the healing power of friendship."--*Kirkus Reviews,* Starred

"A stunning debut, with lyrical prose and superbly developed characters. . . . [Readers] will savor *Nest* and reflect on it long after its conclusion."--*School Library Journal*, Starred

"Ehrlich’s novel beautifully captures the fragile bond shared by Chirp and Joey and their growing trust for each other in a world filled with disappointments and misunderstandings."--*Publishers Weekly,* Starred** **

"Chirp’s first-person voice is believable; her poignant earnestness is truly heartrending. Ehrlich writes beautifully, constructing scenes with grace and layers of telling detail and insight."--*The Horn Book*

**What authors are saying about *** **Nest:

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“*Nest *sings with heart and emotion. Simply gorgeous.”--Jennifer L. Holm, *New York Times* bestselling author of *Turtle in Paradise

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"*Nest *speaks to the heart. I wanted to put my arms around Chirp and never let go."--Holly Goldberg Sloan, author of *Counting by 7s* and *I'll Be There*

"I loved the book! It's so tender and touching and real. Chirp is a marvelous character, and Joey's just plain lovable. I worry about him. Congratulations. The book is absolutely splendid and I hope everyone in the world notices."--Karen Cushman, author of the Newbery Medal, *The Midwife's Apprentice* and the Newbery Honor, *Catherine, Called Birdy*

“A remarkable work. Esther Ehrlich’s characters stand out so real and true: Chirp’s friendship with Joey is tender and moving, and truly unforgettable. One can see Cape Cod and feel Chirp’s love for the birds wheeling overhead. I wanted this story to go on and on. What a brilliant future this author has. I can’t wait to read her next book.”--Patricia Reilly Giff, two-time Newbery Honor–winning author