Dr. Bird to the Rescue
Author: D. J. Smith
Illustrations: Kevin Kibsey


Children and adults will be able to appreciate the beautiful watercolor illustrations by Kevin Kibsey, a native of Arizona. He incorporates a sense of realism as well as fancy in his artwork (a sombrero-wearing, guitar-holding Gila monster). Like the desert itself, the beauty of the artwork is subtle. Spending some time on each page will reveal small details that might go undetected if passed over too quickly. Included at the end of the book is a list of the native animals included in the story and some photographs to compare to Kibsey's detailed renditions.

The author, D.J. Smith, uses simple language to deliver the story. The main message of interdependence in nature is fairly transparent, while the underlying message of human diversity may not be as apparent. Sammy is a plant and cannot move, so the help must come to him. Much like a plant, there are people who, for a variety of reasons, cannot help themselves. And, like Dr. Bird, those who help others learn that charity is not about hand-outs, but about helping each other discover our strengths.