A Cage Went in Search of a Bird

PreS-Gr 2—In this story, with its title taken from an aphorism by Franz Kafka, a discarded birdcage in a dusty attic finds its way outside, hoping to meet its destiny. In the fresh air, the cage tries to tempt a series of birds to call it home, but they are content with their freedom, their warm nests, and the space they need. When the cage meets a canary, it is a match; the canary was set free by its owner and longs for the comforts of a cage in a home. "Dear bird…do not worry anymore…For I have come to save you. And you have come to save me." This reassuring conclusion leaves an unanswered question: How will the bird and the cage get back inside to safety? Readers will be satisfied nonetheless. Fagan's simple prose and his deft characterization of an inanimate object—the cage produces a "mighty heave" to get up a hill, "bang[s] its door open and shut" to get attention, and always asks, "Dear bird, wouldn't you like to come inside?"—are charming and believable. Erfanian's richly colored full-spread acrylic paintings are bold and whimsical.