From School Library Journal
This coming-of-age story, set in the early 20th century, is rich in historical and environmental detail as well as adventure. Abandoned by his mother as a baby, 13-year-old Ben has been raised by Professor Riley while traveling around the country with their Shakespearean Elocution Show selling magic elixir. The narration alternates between Ben and the Professor's caustic macaw, Murphy, whose sections are full of jealousy and resentment toward "the boy" who has monopolized the man's love and attention. When the unusual family travels into Florida, Murphy, who often has premonitions, becomes convinced that Ben has a dangerous and important task to accomplish-he must save the beautiful birds that are being massacred to provide feathers for fashionable hats. Ben is captivated by them, and horrified at their plight. When he gets involved with a brother and sister who are hunters because they are so poor that they have no other way to survive, he is torn. The Professor has taught Ben well, not only about literature and language, but also about fairness and compassion. He cares for the sick young hunter and two baby birds he has rescued from slaughter, and survives confrontations with a cruel hunter and a Florida panther. The narration by Murphy is an odd twist that doesn't always ring completely true. However, Ben's gradual realization that there are two valid sides to many issues, including hunting and medicine, shows his maturity and makes this a satisfying read.
Susan Oliver, Tampa-Hillsborough Public Library System, FL
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