Homeless Bird

Homeless Bird

By Gloria Whelan

2000

AWARD: National Book Award Winner

At 13 years old young Koly is expected to leave her family and marry someone she has never met.  It is custom in India to have your parents arrange a marriage for you!  Koly’s family, although of highest Hindu caste Brahman, still had very little to offer as dowry for Koly so the family cow, among other family possessions had to be sold to pay to the grooms family to take her. UGH!  Upon arriving in the village of her groom, Hari, the first thing asked was of her dowry, leading her to believe that the money for her was all her in-laws were interested in. She was correct. The money would be used to take Hari to Varanasi to the holy Ganges River in hopes of curing her sickly and terminally ill husband. The events that unfold are heartbreaking as well as uplifting, but the strength and courage in the heart of young Koly is inspiring.

I really didn’t think I would like this book.  The cover did not appeal to me, and the title was vague.  It wasn’t until about half way into the book that the title held meaning!  I love the culture and tradition depicted in the book, but I really think it should be more for older elementary students as opposed to 3^rd, 4^th or 5^th grade.  I fell in love with Koly and delighted in her happy ending!