This author participates in the Readers' Favorite Free Book Program, which is open to all readers and is completely free. The author will provide you with a free copy of their book in exchange for an honest review. You and the author will discuss what sites you will post your review to and what kind of copy of the book you would like to receive (eBook, PDF, Word, paperback, etc.). To begin, click the purple email icon to send this author a private email.
This author participates in the Readers' Favorite Book Review Exchange Program, which is open to all authors and is completely free. Simply put, you agree to provide an honest review an author's book in exchange for the author doing the same for you. What sites your reviews are posted on (B&N, Amazon, etc.) and whether you send digital (eBook, PDF, Word, etc.) or hard copies of your books to each other for review is up to you. To begin, click the purple email icon to send this author a private email, and be sure to describe your book or include a link to your Readers' Favorite review page or Amazon page.
This author participates in the Readers' Favorite Book Donation Program, which was created to help nonprofit and charitable organizations (schools, libraries, convalescent homes, soldier donation programs, etc.) by providing them with free books and to help authors garner more exposure for their work. This author is willing to donate free copies of their book in exchange for reviews (if circumstances allow) and the knowledge that their book is being read and enjoyed. To begin, click the purple email icon to send this author a private email. Be sure to tell the author who you are, what organization you are with, how many books you need, how they will be used, and the number of reviews, if any, you would be able to provide.
Hi! I’m a writer and naturalist based in Teton Valley, Idaho. Uplift is my third novel, and my most unusual! I was inspired to write it to give birds and other nonhuman characters a voice—as we people tend to overlook them because they don’t speak our language.
It is my hope that the book, by telling a compelling, relatable story, can help inspire greater respect and compassion for birds and other creatures. I will be donating my profits to nonprofit organizations dedicated to protecting birds and nature, so the more books sold, the greater good it can do!
With thanks and gratitude for your support.
-Jessica
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Uplift is a work of fiction in the mythical adventure, animals, and action genres. Penned by author Jessica Mann, this charming story tells the story of Columbina, a young Clark’s Nutcracker with a sharp intellect and deep curiosity. Raised in a high mountain wilderness, she challenges traditional norms and befriends an ostracized Belted Kingfisher named Halcyon. As their home faces threats from humans, Columbina realizes the danger posed by the Tall Ones. She must lead her fellow birds to work together to protect their habitat. The tale, narrated from the perspective of birds, explores themes of family, friendship, and environmental stewardship. Mann's passion for animal welfare and ecology translates into an enchanting and enlightening read.
Jessica Mann’s ability to anthropomorphize the bird characters without losing their natural essence was remarkable, making Columbina’s journey both relatable and inspiring as we lend our human sensibilities to her problems. Her rebellious spirit and curiosity are brightly penned with a confident and vibrant command of language, and her willingness to challenge traditions and forge new friendships in the face of adversity offers us the chance to follow along with a close narrative focus on her mission. The bond between Columbina and Halcyon, despite societal opposition, highlights the power of acceptance and understanding, and the unique ways in which they understand one another straddle the world of human communication versus animal bonds. There is a mystical and wise presence to the story, underscoring the deep connections within nature thanks to evocative imagery and emotionally intelligent mood-setting. The looming threat from the Tall Ones, representing human encroachment, is a poignant reminder of the environmental challenges today that evoke a sense of urgency and the importance of unity in protecting the natural world. Overall, Uplift is a highly recommended read for its captivating narrative and important central message.
