While the awesome storytelling and plucky hero carry this tale, the cast of supporting characters keeps young readers entertained. Against overwhelming odds, Bitty, the "canary in the coal mine," brings about changes that help his co-workers, both human (coal miners) and avian. Adventure, problem-solving, and perseverance play leading thematic roles in this delightful and memorable read. Great for independent reading or for reading aloud! Tired of his 12-hour shifts and facing danger daily, Bitty, a canary whose courage more than makes up for his small size, treks to the state capital to try to improve working conditions in coal mines.

Bitty is a canary whose courage more than makes up for his diminutive size. Of course, as a miner bird who detects deadly gas leaks in a West Virginia coal mine during the Depression, he is used to facing danger. Tired of perilous working conditions, he escapes and hops a coal train to the state capital to seek help in improving the plights of miners and their canaries. In the tradition of E.B. White, George Selden, and Beverly Cleary's Ralph S. Mouse, Madelyn Rosenberg has written a singular novel full of unforgettable characters.