Mercy's Birds

Lorraine Douglas is the youth services co-ordinator at the Winnipeg
Public Library.

Fifteen-year-old Mercy’s life is falling apart as her single mother,
Pearl, withdraws further into silence and depression. Mercy, Pearl, and
Pearl’s sister, “Moo,” share a dilapidated house in Winnipeg.
Mercy is living in fear of “B,” Moo’s boyfriend, who is away
working somewhere else. Mercy keeps her secret to herself and works hard
at both her schoolwork and her job at a florist shop.

As Mercy’s anxiety rises, her mother suffers an overdose and is
hospitalized. Moo hopes to cheer Mercy up by planning a surprise 16th
birthday party for her. The party scene features an acute portrayal of
teenage embarrassment as Mercy is humiliated by her aunt’s
alcohol-induced behavior. After the party, Mercy becomes seriously ill.
Her physical and emotional recovery is aided by her estranged
grandmother who comes to stay. Mercy’s feelings finally find their
voice; she is able to overcome her fears and confront B after his
return.

This novel is layered with imagery, drama, and an understanding of the
painful emotions associated with life in an abusive and alcoholic
situation. The birds that make appearances throughout the novel mark
Mercy’s progression from victimization to hope. Award-winning novelist
Linda Holeman has written a powerful novel that, like her earlier
Promise Song, features a strong and indomitable heroine. Highly
recommended.