Oddbird finds himself wishing for a family of his own.The titular protagonist is used to being the odd one out; in Oddbird (2023), he was initially rebuffed by the other, more brightly hued birds for his gray, colorless appearance. Though he eventually makes friends, a visit to his pal Jerry's house-filled with warmth and chattering family members-throws Oddbird's lack of a family into stark relief. As Oddbird walks home later, he notices bird families swimming, rollerblading (with helmets), riding a tandem bike (sans helmets), flying a kite, and picnicking. On the next spread-the only one without a white background-a sad-looking Oddbird appears alone, off-center, against a deep-blue swirling background. A few weeks later, he's about to celebrate his birthday on his own when his friends burst in with a cake. "You didn't think you would celebrate alone, did you?" asks Jerry. Oddbird realizes that although his family may look different, it's just as loving and supportive as the others he's observed. This stand-alone sequel features the same brilliantly colored and textured illustrations as the first book. While Oddbird is a somewhat passive character-it's his friends who carry the day at the end-the positive message about chosen families shines nonetheless; children who are part of nontraditional families will feel seen.A reassuring reminder that families come in all forms. (Picture book. 2-5)

K-Gr 2 —This book will once again pull readers into Oddbird's colorful world to meet his friends' families and to witness his wide-eyed realization of what it means to have a chosen family. Living on his own, with no immediate family members, Oddbird feels dispirited and lonely, comparing himself to the large families his friends and neighbors always seem surrounded by, especially after a visit to his friend Jerry. Remaining true to the first book's style, Desierto uses bright, colorful shapes and unique feather textures for the birds, who come in all shapes and sizes, in order to surround little grey Oddbird with lively examples of how family members do not have to look alike in order to care for one another. The collagelike effects of layered shapes and brush textures that compose the birds, plants, and home items stand starkly against a white background, rapidly drawing readers' eyes to each vivid element, revealing the story of Oddbird's emotional journey transparently and quickly. Different treatments of text, such as enlarged font or speech bubbles, show how the other birds fill Oddbird's otherwise quiet life with enthusiasm and support. This story can help elevate a classroom discussion about the great diversity of home-life situations and family, exemplifying acceptance for how loved ones are found in treasured connections with friends and their families. VERDICT Filled with energy and a beautifully balanced rainbow of colors, the bouncy pace of Oddbird's sequel reveals how family is defined by those who offer love and support.—Rachel Mulligan