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“A well-balanced story that delivers on promises of facts, fantasy, and fun.”

—Kirkus Reviews

“Gurel’s beautiful ornithological descriptions interwoven with Sufi poet Attar’s work serve as a backdrop for steadfast Laleh and her spirited cousin’s gripping quest to save her father and the birds from her merciless uncle. Laleh and the Language of Birds is a poignant exploration of family, devotion, and the quiet yet enduring courage required to protect those who matter most, all imbued with a sense of wonder that lingers long after the final page.”

—Dr. Haleh Massey, author of Say Something, Poupeh Babaee!

Laleh and the Language of the Birds

Written by Perin Gurel and Marjane Searl
Published by Wildling Press

Thirteen-year-old Iranian-American Laleh Lateef’s world shatters when her ornithologist father vanishes from the bird sanctuary they called home. She’s forced to live with her grouchy uncle, quiet aunt, and rebellious cousin Ivy, who delights in calling her “Bird Nerd.” Life feels hopeless—until two crow brothers, Gold and Silver, begin delivering strange gifts.

When the gifts fit together into a magical device that lets Laleh talk to birds, she uncovers a breathtaking secret: Her father’s disappearance is part of a larger menace haunting the sanctuary. And her uncle is the likely culprit.

With the sanctuary and its feathered residents in danger, Laleh and Ivy must team up—whether they like it or not—and follow the clues through an ancient Middle Eastern legend known as The Language of the Birds. Their destination: Avesia, the mythical sky realm of perfect bird habitats.

The catch? No one has ever reached it without wings.

Primary ISBN:
Publication Date: April 2026
Available As: Paperback
Middle Grade, Age 09 or older

Community Represented: ,

Themes: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Setting: United States

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: 1st Generation

Book Creator(s) Connection to the Community Represented: Own Voices/Lived Experience

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