The Courage of the Little Hummingbird
by Leah Henderson
Illustrated by Magaly Morales
from Abrams Books for Young Readers
A freshly retold animal fable about heroism, hope, and community, from award-winning creators Leah Henderson and Magaly Morales
Across oceans, lands, and skies
In whispers, shouts, and in many different languages
the story of the little hummingbird of the Great Forest can always be heard
The story of the little hummingbird has been told around the world in many forms and across many cultures, believed to have originated among the Indigenous Quecha people of modern-day Ecuador. In this spin on the globally popular legend, when a disastrous forest fire threatens the Great Forest, the hummingbird must inspire all the animals to work together to save their homes.
Lyrically told by Leah Henderson and vividly illustrated by Magaly Morales, this tale of bravery against seemingly insurmountable odds and a community working together to overcome adversity is a reminder that no challenge is too great, and that even the smallest of us can make a world of difference.
Includes an author’s note, as well as back matter on the origins of the folktale and facts about hummingbirds.
Praise
“Brave the crowds to get this one, wherever you are.” – Kirkus Review (starred review)
LEAH HENDERSON is the author of A Day for Rememberin’, Together We March, Daddy Speaks Love, and Your Voice, Your Vote. Her middle-grade novels include The Magic in Changing Your Stars, a SCBWI Golden Kite Awards finalist, and One Shadow on the Wall, a Bank Street Best Children’s Book of the Year. Henderson holds an MFA in writing and is on faculty in Spalding University’s School of Creative and Professional Writing.
MAGALY MORALES is the illustrator of the picture books What Can You Do with a Paleta?, a Tomás Rivera Mexican American Children’s Book Award winner, as well as Chavela and the Magic Bubble, A Piñata in a Pine Tree, and Pura’s Cuentos. She was born in Xalapa, Veracruz, Mexico.