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Leslie Plover: A Friendship That Flew Across the World
Paperback
Publisher Price: $15.99
Publisher: Cornell Bunting
Published: Sep 18 2026
Pages: 78
Weight: 0.46
Height: 0.20 Width: 8.50 Depth: 8.50
Language: English
Leslie Plover: A Friendship That Flew Across the World is a heartwarming children's story about friendship, freedom, curiosity, and the beauty of nature.
Nine-year-old Liliana loves the beach, but one summer day at the Jersey Shore, an unexpected encounter changes the way she sees the world. Near the water's edge, she meets a beautiful black-bellied plover. When the little bird returns with a yellow flower in its beak, Liliana names him Leslie-and a remarkable friendship begins.
As Liliana learns more about plovers, she discovers that Leslie is not meant to live in a cage. He is a wild bird, free to travel wherever his wings take him. Although she misses him when he disappears, Liliana begins to understand that true friendship is not about holding on too tightly.
Their bond takes an extraordinary turn when Liliana travels with her family to Switzerland and unexpectedly sees Leslie again. This time, he is not alone. He has found a golden plover companion, whom Liliana lovingly names Goldie. Through yellow flowers, long journeys, changing seasons, and surprising reunions, Liliana learns that friendship can remain strong even across great distances.
When she finally returns home to California, Liliana and her family build a special bird shelter in the garden, hoping that one day Leslie might find his way back to her. Months pass, and Liliana begins to wonder if she will ever see him again. Then one day, a familiar yellow flower appears-and with it comes a reunion she will never forget.
Beautifully illustrated and filled with warmth, wonder, humor, and meaningful life lessons, Leslie Plover: A Friendship That Flew Across the World encourages young readers to appreciate nature, respect wild animals, stay curious, and understand that love sometimes means giving others the freedom to be who they are.
Perfect for children ages 6-9, this story also includes educational information about the real black-bellied plover, discussion questions, and nature-based activities that make it an excellent choice for families, classrooms, libraries, and youth programs.
At its heart, Leslie Plover reminds readers that home is not always one place-and that some of the most meaningful friendships are the ones that teach us how to let go, keep believing, and welcome one another back with love.
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