"Each Little Bird That Sings" is a children's novel written by Deborah Wiles. The book was first published in 2005 and is targeted at readers in the middle-grade age group. It deals with themes of loss, grief, and the process of learning to cope with death.
The story is centered around 10-year-old Comfort Snow, who comes from a family that runs a funeral home in the small town of Snapfinger, Mississippi. Comfort has a unique perspective on life and death due to her upbringing in a family that deals with funerals and grief on a regular basis.
At the beginning of the novel, Comfort experiences a significant loss when her beloved great-uncle Edisto passes away. This event marks the first time she confronts death on a personal level. Comfort's world is turned upside down as she tries to cope with the loss and navigate the complexities of grief. Through her experiences, the book explores the emotions and challenges associated with losing a loved one.
As Comfort deals with her grief, she also forms new friendships and discovers the importance of community and support during difficult times. The story touches on themes of resilience, empathy, and the healing power of connections with others.
Deborah Wiles' "Each Little Bird That Sings" has been praised for its heartfelt storytelling and its sensitive approach to handling themes of death and grief in a way that is accessible and relatable to younger readers. It is a poignant and touching tale that encourages discussions about loss and the importance of cherishing the moments we have with our loved ones.