Clia, the First Bird Ever — Olivia Rosewood

For children of all ages, this rhyming picture book tells the story of Clia, the first bird ever. Inspired by Eckhart Tolle, this story is based on the true life of Archaeopteryx, born 150 million years ago in what we now call southern Germany. Clia, the first being born with feathers (from traditional lizard parents) must find her way in a world of lizards who are quite stuck in their ways. Why does Clia have feathers while other lizards have scales? Why does Clia want to fly while other lizards want to hide? Why does Clia sing while other lizards remain silent? Clia embraces her differences and realizes her potential, becoming the first bird ever. "Clia is a delightful adventure into our individual uniqueness yet shared biological ancestry. Ms. Rosewood conveys in one simple life the power to change the world and the message to never be afraid or ashamed of how we might be different." SUSAN L. SMALLEY, Ph.D. Professor of Psychiatry, UCLA Semel Institute