The Mob (The Crow Chronicles trilogy, Part 1)

During their annual migration, a flock of crows has to confront human and animal enemies and deadly weather conditions. The novel achieves a pleasing balance between anthropomorphic characterisation and accurately described bird behaviour. The crows have a rule – and religion-bound civilisation which is challenged by the younger generation. In pursuit of survival, the flock is forced to engage with clashes between the individual and the group, and between innovation and tradition. Martini’s style shifts easily between folkloric storytelling and naturalistic narrative, as appropriate. There are many dramatic passages dealing with personal and physical conflicts, but because of the poetic, descriptive nature of much of the writing, this book is probably best suited to confident readers at the upper end of the age range.