Little Birds in Cages is set in 1990 and is essentially about nurturing empathy and kindness on a multi generational level and being of service to others. The story offers a life-line of hope for teens, young adults and anyone who faces challenges of self-worth, acceptance and value, or how to discover one's purposeful and unique contribution to the world. The book addresses all of these themes and more in a 'powerfully moving and beautifully written novel' that captivates the human spirit to triumph over life's challenges.
The main character, Melanie, 15, deals with having an absent parent, as her dad admitted himself to psychiatric care for a year. Rachel, also 15 and co-protagonist, has challenges accepting herself and suffers at home with her overbearing mother. George is in his 80s and deals with the daily frustrations of living with Alzheimer's. Mr Roody is a headteacher with anger issues and is estranged from his daughter. Sally leads a simple life and wants to help others. She wonders if there is more to life than living with her adopted cat.
Throughout the story, we see how their lives entwine and play out during a two-week work experience at Sunny Well residential home.