"Birds of America"

[faithadler]

When Werner finds Marie-Laure, and they are in the attic, surrounded by books, Werner finds the book "Birds of America", a book that his old accomplice, Frederick, shared with him. What do you think the purpose of him finding this book in Etienne's attic was? Does it have any sort of affiliated symbolism?

[jackh]

That book, throughout the story, was mentioned during times when Werner was thinking about Frederick. It was first introduced when he visited Frederick's home, and was revisited when he saw Frederick after the accident. The book, between him and Frederick, was a symbol of bonding and friendship. When he found Marie-Laure, the book reappeared, and shared it with Marie-Laure, symbolizing a new friendship. Another way of thinking about it is that Frederick gave Werner the gift of friendship, saving him from instead befriending any of the number of less desirable boys available. He showed Werner the beauty of birds and books. His story inspired Werner to work harder and better, and not to succumb to the nasty acts others took part in. Werner sharing the book with Marie-Laure symbolized him passing on this friendship and inspiration to someone else who would also be changed by it in the years to come. Frederick saved Werner from loneliness among other things, and Werner saved Marie-Laure from many things. The book symbolized friendship, trust, compassion, and support.