Orphans & Foster Homes

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Gwen MacKinnon has spent much of the eleven short years of her life feeling unwanted, but it only takes two weeks in a small Massachusetts town–plus one unruly dog, an enthusiastic four-year-old, the coolest older cousin, the corniest uncle, some love and attention, and an entire clan of tiny, winged creatures convinced she is destined to be a hero–for Gwen to understand that home isn’t just a word. This new book by Jeanne Birdsall is absolutely worth the wait (tbh I needed the time, I’m still recovering from The Penderwicks in Spring), full of Birdsall’s signature heart and community love, with some very unique world building for the lore of the Lahdukan. Gwen is a delightful character to join on her journey of fate, discovery, and courage.

The Library of Unruly Treasures by Jeanne Birdsall, (List Price: $17.99, Knopf Books for Young Readers, 9780525579045, August 2025)

Reviewed by Morgan Holub, E. Shaver Bookseller in Savannah, Georgia

Buy from your local indie.
Get the audiobook

Gwen MacKinnon has spent much of the eleven short years of her life feeling unwanted, but it only takes two weeks in a small Massachusetts town–plus one unruly dog, an enthusiastic four-year-old, the coolest older cousin, the corniest uncle, some love and attention, and an entire clan of tiny, winged creatures convinced she is destined to be a hero–for Gwen to understand that home isn’t just a word. This new book by Jeanne Birdsall is absolutely worth the wait (tbh I needed the time, I’m still recovering from The Penderwicks in Spring), full of Birdsall’s signature heart and community love, with some very unique world-building for the lore of the Lahdukan. Gwen is a delightful character to join on her journey of fate, discovery, and courage.

The Library of Unruly Treasures by Jeanne Birdsall, (List Price: $20.99, Knopf Books for Young Readers, 9780525579052, August 2025)

Reviewed by Morgan Holub, E. Shaver Bookseller in Savannah, Georgia