Hello, My Name is Ruby is another lovely book by Philip C. Stead (2013). He writes with unique gentle kindness. Ruby is a very small, yellow bird who introduces herself to other birds, one at a time. The first bird invites Ruby to fly, and we learn that "Ruby had never flown with a friend before." (OK, unlikely for a bird, but I imagine readers will relate.) Ruby adopts this kind gesture and asks other birds to fly with her. She also asks a tiny bird if it is ever afraid. The reply is powerful. When a large, imposing bird rejects Ruby's invitation to be her friend, Stead successfully captures Ruby's hurt feelings. Never fear, a more friendly bird shows up and directs Ruby to other birds like herself. Ruby seems amazed to find a flock of similar, small yellow birds. (OK, unlikely.) I expect to turn the page and find Ruby thrilled to find her own tribe at last. Misleading text on the inside book cover implies this conclusion. But Stead is much too intelligent a story teller to settle for that trope. His ending is much more satisfying.
