When The Birds Wake Up

A powerful verse novel from the 2025 winner of David Fickling Books' Search for a Storyteller competition.

'Jessica's words are life-affirming and validating and will help young people be happy with who they are.' Matt Haig, award-winning and bestselling author

'A tender story of love and loss and hope.' Matt Goodfellow, award-winning author of The Final Year

'A debut of rare beauty and tenderness. Piglet and Pear will make readers' hearts sing.' Kiran Millwood Hargrave, award-winning author of The Girl of Ink and Stars

Ten-year-old Pear is struggling to cope: with her grandma's Alzheimer's, with a new school and with cruel classmates' jibes. Enter Piglet - a scruffy rescue dog, who helps Pear rebuild her sense of self. She remembers what matters most, through music, friendship and the armour of unconditional love.

This unique and important story is beautifully illustrated throughout by Sophie Burrows.

'A poignant story of the connections we can make with family, friends, dogs, and ourselves.' Sarah Lean, author of A Dog Called Homeless

'Boldly beautiful - this book bounced right into my heart.' Donna Ashworth, poet and No.1 Sunday Times bestseller