![Book cover of *The Songbird Army* by Julia Blackburn], a children’s story about garden birds uniting to protect their home.](https://lirp.cdn-website.com/1425d62d/dms3rep/multi/opt/2026-02-06+The+May+Day+Chorus+Eb0ok+cover-1920w.jpg)
A Magical Middle Grade Adventure
for Readers Aged 8-12
When the choir is exiled and forbidden to sing, Rube must learn the hardest lesson of all: how to listen.
Betrayed by fear and silenced by shame, the Songbird Choir has lost everything. But when unexpected allies offer a second chance, Rube discovers that true harmony means welcoming voices he once pushed away — even the ones that scare him most.
Who will love this book?
Readers aged 8–12 who enjoyed The Songbird Army and love stories of redemption
Fans of The Wild Way Home, The Last Wild, Pax, or Charlotte's Web
Teachers and parents exploring themes of forgiveness, inclusion, and learning from mistakes
Themes & Curriculum Links
Redemption and second chances: how mistakes can teach us to grow
Listening and empathy: understanding those who seem different or dangerous
Community and belonging: rebuilding trust after division
Forgiveness: letting go of fear to embrace new friendships
Perfect for classroom discussions about conflict resolution, empathy, and PSHE lessons on relationships and belonging, The May Day Chorus shows how listening can be braver than fighting.