The Speckled Feather is an engaging, simple story about three birds who quarrel over a beautiful speckled feather. As a parent, this story is one I'd read to my children often to help remind them of how arguing with friends isn't beneficial. This story was translated to English and the translation was done superbly! Also, the illustrations are spectacular - as an adult I really appreciated the art style. I'd highly recommend this book to parents of younger children, it deserves a spot on my kid's bookshelves!

A debut picture book with a whole heap of promise. On the plains of Africa, three birds live calmly on the back of an elephant, until jealousy, big-headedness, spite and greed all rear their heads, when one of the birds claims as his own a red, speckled feather, previously from a different type of bird entirely. How can such an argument be resolved? There're dynamism and character in the artwork, and a good mood when the visuals allow for something more atmospheric. At times things are possibly a little too dynamic – I stumbled once or twice, having missed the text that was allowed to break away from the usual straight lines. But for an entertaining story with a good moral, this succeeds.

The Speckled Feather, written and illustrated by Johanna Ries, is a delightful debut, and I was thoroughly charmed by the antics of the fascinating creatures who call the Savannah their home.

When a speckled feather falls from the sky, it catches the attention of bird friends Ade, Emem, and Nuru immediately. Having peacefully co-existed on the back of their elephant friend until now, the three bicker amongst themselves over who should rightfully possess this treasure, putting themselves, and those around them, in jeopardy.

This is a wonderful story that touches upon several universal themes, including greed, vanity, friendship, and loyalty. Children of all ages will be captivated by this book, and I would highly recommend adding it to library shelves everywhere.

Many thanks to NetGalley and North South Books Inc. for an ARC of this title.

Highlights:
What a beautiful book, the illustrations are wonderful. The story and text is well thought out. I believe this book can offer a little bit of something for everyone. I certainly enjoyed it as much as my children.

My criteria for reviewing children's picture books are as follows: Does it keep my child's attention? Are the pictures engaging? Is it age appropriate? Is it teaching anything of value? Does it promote a conversation after the book is over?

Does it keep my child attention?
Yes, my 2 year old and 5 year old both like this book. They sat through it attentively and the text was not to long, and easily understood.
Are the pictures engaging?
This book was a piece of artwork, in that it had beautiful renderings done of the Savannah. I also loved the juxtaposition of each picture and the text.
Is it age appropriate?
Absolutely.
Is it teaching anything of value?
Yes, not only does it drop some facts about the Savannah and the creatures who live there in a fun way, it addresses the issue of pride, vanity, and selfishness and what consequences those choices may have. As well as forgiveness which is important for any child to read about.
Does it promote a conversation after the book is over?
Absolutely, it promoted a wonderful conversation on the above teaching values.

The shocking ending of this book will leave young readers to think. The message in this story is powerful and many kids could benefit from it. I enjoyed the story.