Duet

The story of the impactful partnership between humans and mockingbirds, both scientifically and culturally over the centuries, written for young adults by award-winning nonfiction powerhouse Phil Hoose.

The Northern mockingbirdâs brilliant songâ"a loud, bright, liquid sampling of musical notes and phrasesâ"has made it a beloved companion and the official bird of five states. Many of our favorite songs and poems feature mockingbirds.

Mockingbirds have been companions to humans for centuries. Many Native American myths and legends feature mockingbirds, often teaching humans to speak. Thomas Jeffersonâs mockingbird, âDickâ, was the first White House pet. John James Audubonâs portrait of a rattlesnake raiding a mockingbirdâs nest sparked outrage in the world of art. Atticus Finchâs somber warning to his children, âRemember, itâs a sin to kill a Mockingbird,â is known throughout the world. Some jazz musicians credit mockingbirds with teaching them a four-note call that says, âBreakâs over.â And mockingjaysâ"a hybrid between jabberjays and mockersâ"are a symbol of the rebel cause in the Hunger Games trilogy.

But in the early 1900s the mocker was plummeting toward extinction. Too many had been trapped, sold, and caged. Something had to be done. To the rescue came a powerful and determined group of women.

Now, National Book Award and Newbery honor-winner Phillip Hoose brings the story of the important and overlooked connection between humans and mockingbirdsâ"past, present, and future. It is the third volume of his bird trilogy.

Duet is a study in the power of song. As author Steve Sheinkin puts it, âThis book will change how you listen to the world.â