Nerdy Birdy
“Trying to be cool is exhausting”
Nerdy Birdy has a difficult time fitting in with the “cool birdies.” He has nothing in common with them. He has giant glasses, a birdseed allergy, and an intense interest in video games - making him different than the cool birds. Because of that, he is rejected by the exclusive group.
Eventually, he is picked up by a whole flock of other “nerdy birdies.” They are exactly like him! They welcome him into their crew and for a moment, it’s all good.
However, a new bird comes into town and she’s not like the cool birdies OR the nerdy birdies and therefore she gets rejected by both groups. Nerdy Birdy finds himself at a crossroad. Knowing how lonely it feels to be lonely, what will he do?
We love this story because the main character experiences both feelings of belonging and loneliness associated with finding your flock. Like in the real world, we are faced with a desire to find others like us - it’s natural. But we need to be cautious that we don’t only befriend those that are exactly like us.
This story reminds us all that values like kindness and connection are more important in friendships than hobbies and appearances.
Some things to think about…
When you think about your friends, what is the same about you? What is different?
What do you know about vultures? The nerdy birdies are disgusted about what the she eats, but her food choice is actually really good for our planet! Do some research at here to find out why vultures (and other scavengers) are so important for maintaining the health of our world.
