A spotlight on The Boy, the Bird and the Coffin Maker
The Boy, the Bird and the Coffin Maker is one of the six books shortlisted for this year’s Readings Children’s Book Prize. Here’s everything you need to know about this tender and hopeful story.
‘Set in Allora, a magical town of flying fish, this is beautifully written story has the feel of a classic fable. Coffin maker Alberto is accustomed to living alone, but after noticing some food disappearing he opens his home and heart to the frightened boy, Tito, and his magical bird who have been visiting. Matilda Woods skilfully handles some dark themes. Her touches of magic and whimsy and the dreamy sheen of her prose make it safe for young readers to consider loneliness, grief and sorrow at a distance.’
– Kim Gruschow, Chair of the judging panel
Who should read this book?
Children with big hearts and an appreciation for timeless tales of friendship will adore this one. Recommended for ages 9 and up, but our Malvern children’s specialist Athina
this book as a great read-aloud for the whole family.
Meet the author…
Matilda Woods lives in the Southern Tablelands with her four chickens, three dogs, two cats and one bird. She splits her time between writing middle grade fiction and working as a youth worker.
