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More Than A Bird
Scared, abused and taken to the limit of a person’s capacity to endure tragedy, Elizabeth “Liz” Huntley reveals the perils of a childhood that would lead most to a broken life or premature death. Liz, now a successful attorney at a prestigious southern law firm, recounts her journey from unimaginable darkness to radiance thanks to the early intervention of teachers, a pastor and caring people, strategically placed in her life by God. Decidedly unembellished, inherently poignant, More Than a Bird gives a glimpse of horror yet leaves only hope. Through her life story, Liz proves that on the wings of God, there is no height she cannot reach.
138 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 29, 2015
32 people are currently reading
286 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
January 22, 2025
I read this book after listening to Liz talk about her testimony at a leadership event. She gave all of us copies of the book to read, and this story was very impactful. It really illustrated that God will provide for us if we draw near to Him. It showed a lot of perseverance and overcoming of obstacles. Overall a great, short, easy read that has a lasting impact.
August 2, 2024
the story of God’s provision in the life of a true auburn woman!!!!
August 6, 2015
I have had the distinct pleasure of working with Liz on this wonderful book for the past year. While the experience I gained with her was exceedingly valuable for my writing ambitions, the hope she inspired in me and so many others has proved to be the greatest treasure of all. And that hope is accessible to anyone who reads her beautiful story.
Liz's memoir stands at the intersection of so many of today's most pressing issues. By showing the impact it had on her life, Liz proves the essential benefits yielded from high quality preschool education. The sexual abuse she experienced at the hands of a family member reminds us to be vigilant against such heinous, demoralizing acts. The domestic violence of another family member in her home illuminates the need for better treatment of the mental disorders that caused a good man to lash out against those closest to him. She highlights the importance of books, not only in her academic growth, but also the value they have and the hope they inspire to someone living a broken life. Finally, the intervention of her pastor demonstrates that the redeeming love of God remains the one true route to emotional healing and spiritual salvation under any circumstances.
Throughout her memoir, Liz unapologetically attributes all the successes of her life to God. After observing the miracle of her life and where she is now, it's clear that she had to have been touched by God. Furthermore, it's clear why He intervened in her life. Her story is inspiring in so many different ways. To children going through similar trials, she shows a way from darkness and fear to brilliant light and courageous strength. To teachers, parents, ministers, and all those who interact with children, she's living proof that a simple act of kindness can redirect the course of a child's life. Above all, she embodies the hope that nourishes more than any natural sustenance.
Her writing style is straightforward, letting the facts of her life speak in a voice more powerful than any amount of embellishment or fanciful prose. As such, it's accessible to all, from politicians with the power to enact the changes that would make Liz the rule and not the exception to adolescents who experience her same pains daily and need this message of hope. Therefore, I highly recommend this labor of love to anyone and everyone.
Liz's memoir stands at the intersection of so many of today's most pressing issues. By showing the impact it had on her life, Liz proves the essential benefits yielded from high quality preschool education. The sexual abuse she experienced at the hands of a family member reminds us to be vigilant against such heinous, demoralizing acts. The domestic violence of another family member in her home illuminates the need for better treatment of the mental disorders that caused a good man to lash out against those closest to him. She highlights the importance of books, not only in her academic growth, but also the value they have and the hope they inspire to someone living a broken life. Finally, the intervention of her pastor demonstrates that the redeeming love of God remains the one true route to emotional healing and spiritual salvation under any circumstances.
Throughout her memoir, Liz unapologetically attributes all the successes of her life to God. After observing the miracle of her life and where she is now, it's clear that she had to have been touched by God. Furthermore, it's clear why He intervened in her life. Her story is inspiring in so many different ways. To children going through similar trials, she shows a way from darkness and fear to brilliant light and courageous strength. To teachers, parents, ministers, and all those who interact with children, she's living proof that a simple act of kindness can redirect the course of a child's life. Above all, she embodies the hope that nourishes more than any natural sustenance.
Her writing style is straightforward, letting the facts of her life speak in a voice more powerful than any amount of embellishment or fanciful prose. As such, it's accessible to all, from politicians with the power to enact the changes that would make Liz the rule and not the exception to adolescents who experience her same pains daily and need this message of hope. Therefore, I highly recommend this labor of love to anyone and everyone.
February 4, 2025
Such a good book!!! “If He provides for the birds, He will certainly provide for us.”
July 12, 2019
It Can Be Done
I read this ebook because I will hear the author speak at an International Convention of Alpha Delta Kappa, an honorary teacher organization. I preface my review with that because as a teacher, I have taken poverty workshops where the implication is once you are second to third generation in poverty, there is no way out. The author proves this wrong....so good to see.
The author lived a life that might have led to a deeper dive into poverty but early in her life, she knew there was a better life for her. To be an African-American child in a Southern mostly white town, Liz was blessed to have people recognize her early abilities and support her in her quest to do more with her life. I like the fact that these people were not necessarily identified by race which has me wanting to believe that both black and white people helped her along. Having some family members who helped her, despite some family members who would have brought her down, was nice to see because most of them lived in poverty. Her parents were of no use to her, her brothers and sisters headed down the wrong path, yet in spite of her family, she made it. Luckily, her aunt took her to a different church where she found the people who would become her strongest foundation , the pastor and his wife. His sermon that first day let her realize that God cares for the birds and she was “ more than a bird,” hence the book’s title.
From that point, this became somewhat a mantra for her...that she was more than a bird. Her deep religious faith led her to believe that if something was meant to happen for her, God would find a way. Each time she came up against an obstacle, a door would open, and she would cross that hurdle.
An accomplished lawyer now, Liz looks back to her Pre-K education as a pivotal moment when she discovered learning and what an education could do for her. Her desire for greater things and her deep faith led her to overcome not only poverty and Southern racism, but sexual abuse from a young age. A current lawyer who advocates for children, she is married and a mother who is determined to give her children the life of which she could only dream.
This is a book or a life story children in poverty need to know...that yes, it is possible to rise above the hand you have been dealt. It is actually important for all of us to realize....that when you think you are at the bottom, it is possible to get to the top.
This is also a book teachers need to read especially if they are the kind of teacher making assumptions about a student based on race, education, or sociology-economic status. If the spark is there, then it does not take a great deal to light the fire. This is why I gave this book 5 stars.
I read this ebook because I will hear the author speak at an International Convention of Alpha Delta Kappa, an honorary teacher organization. I preface my review with that because as a teacher, I have taken poverty workshops where the implication is once you are second to third generation in poverty, there is no way out. The author proves this wrong....so good to see.
The author lived a life that might have led to a deeper dive into poverty but early in her life, she knew there was a better life for her. To be an African-American child in a Southern mostly white town, Liz was blessed to have people recognize her early abilities and support her in her quest to do more with her life. I like the fact that these people were not necessarily identified by race which has me wanting to believe that both black and white people helped her along. Having some family members who helped her, despite some family members who would have brought her down, was nice to see because most of them lived in poverty. Her parents were of no use to her, her brothers and sisters headed down the wrong path, yet in spite of her family, she made it. Luckily, her aunt took her to a different church where she found the people who would become her strongest foundation , the pastor and his wife. His sermon that first day let her realize that God cares for the birds and she was “ more than a bird,” hence the book’s title.
From that point, this became somewhat a mantra for her...that she was more than a bird. Her deep religious faith led her to believe that if something was meant to happen for her, God would find a way. Each time she came up against an obstacle, a door would open, and she would cross that hurdle.
An accomplished lawyer now, Liz looks back to her Pre-K education as a pivotal moment when she discovered learning and what an education could do for her. Her desire for greater things and her deep faith led her to overcome not only poverty and Southern racism, but sexual abuse from a young age. A current lawyer who advocates for children, she is married and a mother who is determined to give her children the life of which she could only dream.
This is a book or a life story children in poverty need to know...that yes, it is possible to rise above the hand you have been dealt. It is actually important for all of us to realize....that when you think you are at the bottom, it is possible to get to the top.
This is also a book teachers need to read especially if they are the kind of teacher making assumptions about a student based on race, education, or sociology-economic status. If the spark is there, then it does not take a great deal to light the fire. This is why I gave this book 5 stars.
September 18, 2022
More Than a Bird is one of the sweetest and most inspirational books I have ever read. With just 125 pages, Liz Huntley explains God’s role in the successes of her life. As she shared that God takes care and feeds birds, she also explains that birds do not sit in one place and wait for someone to feed them. She states that “. . . I have learned that God can bless anyone with a life as a contributing member of society. Even if a person is born into terrible circumstances like I was, God can provide the resources needed for success. If He provides for the birds, He will certainly provide for us. But like the birds, we have to do our part to get what we need.” I was fortunate to hear Liz speak about her life in person several years ago and am so happy to now also have the connection of having read her book. War Eagle!
August 1, 2018
This was an inspirational book by a woman who has overcome so much, and isn't afraid to lay the praise of all her accomplishments at God's feet. I heard her speak a few months ago, and am so glad I decided to read her book. The writing itself isn't amazing prose, and I would have liked more details and a more fleshed out setting, so I could really feel the details. But as it was, and growing up in Alabama myself though with the privilege the color of my skin has given me, her story touched me. So much that as soon as I finished it I decided I am going to give it to someone who I know will appreciate it and encourage her to pass it along when she's done. This is a story to be shared.
October 3, 2018
I got this book while seeing Liz Huntley speak at a conference, and I was blown away. Liz tells her story of childhood trauma and pain to give hope and show how you can overcome. She focuses heavily on the influence of teachers throughout her life as well as her faith in God. This was a powerful memoir, and I was just as immersed in her book as I was captivated by her as a speaker.
She wrote this book was intended to be read even by young kids, so there were some things that she mentioned in the book but didn't fully elaborate on (namely the sexual abuse). This would be a great book for kids who are going through similarly difficult situations to read.
She wrote this book was intended to be read even by young kids, so there were some things that she mentioned in the book but didn't fully elaborate on (namely the sexual abuse). This would be a great book for kids who are going through similarly difficult situations to read.
January 24, 2025
Love this book.
I grew up poor, in a rural town, and was dealt my own hand of hardships. Now, as a physician taking care of children in a rural town, I have often asked myself, “how did I get here?” And, the answer, as Liz Huntley sums it up is because I am “more than a bird.”
The reading is simple. There are no grand surprises. But, at the same time, this book is a reminder along the path God has called us, He will provide…but we must do the walking. May I always have the courage to take the next step knowing that I will be held.
I grew up poor, in a rural town, and was dealt my own hand of hardships. Now, as a physician taking care of children in a rural town, I have often asked myself, “how did I get here?” And, the answer, as Liz Huntley sums it up is because I am “more than a bird.”
The reading is simple. There are no grand surprises. But, at the same time, this book is a reminder along the path God has called us, He will provide…but we must do the walking. May I always have the courage to take the next step knowing that I will be held.
August 28, 2020
This book felt very conversational, it was as if the author, Liz was sitting across from me sipping coffee and sharing her life story. I read it in nearly one sitting, the text itself is simple and easy to read. Reading about someone who’s experiences as a child were vastly different than my own has given me much to reflect on and to be thankful for. I was encouraged by her bold sharing of her faith and confidence in God’s sovereignty.
July 22, 2021
This book was beautifully inspiring, but the content is extremely simplified. Initially, I was not aware that the author did this on purpose so that youth (middle school) could comprehend the text. Knowing this now, I think the book is even more valuable in the world of literature, but I would not read it again.
Regardless, I'm sure Liz Huntley has helped more children and adults than she will ever know by putting her story out into the world.
Regardless, I'm sure Liz Huntley has helped more children and adults than she will ever know by putting her story out into the world.
April 21, 2024
I read Liz Huntley’s book after hearing her speak at this year’s Alabama College Attainment Network Conference and it hit me at just the right time. I work with many different state agencies and partners who all work diligently to improve the lives of others, yet often we wonder is it working and is it worth it. I’m so encouraged that these organizations were in place for young Liz. What a shining example of perseverance and living out God’s purpose for her life!
August 19, 2018
Liz Huntley was the speaker at our school institute day and she was such an amazing speaker. I feel the same about her writing. It is her story... but so many of our students we teach every day, it’s their story too. A wonderful story of determination, love, and how we each might be the one person that helps that one student survive....succeed....soar!!!
October 30, 2022
This book is written at a 6th grade reading level so it's a quick read but boy does it have a powerful message. It shares the journey of a woman who has experienced all kinds of childhood trauma (without going into too much detail) and how her community, church, school teachers and support systems helped her overcome them. So thankful to Liz for sharing her story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 9, 2017
I had the pleasure of meeting Author, Liz Huntley. A must read for educators and others that are involved with children and families. It's a reality check to treat people kind and to be inspiring. Prayer changes things.
October 27, 2018
.
A quick read. I highly recommend this book for an inspirational boost to help you remember that you can overcome your circumstances if you have God, determination and that right attitude.
A quick read. I highly recommend this book for an inspirational boost to help you remember that you can overcome your circumstances if you have God, determination and that right attitude.
March 20, 2024
Sweetest little memoir on a local (to me) attorney. Very powerful in the way it shows how important education is (particularly early childhood education) to a child. I also appreciated how the author tied in her experiences with faith. Very inspirational!
August 12, 2017
Love!!!
A must read for all educators! If you ever have the opportunity to hear Mrs. Hundley speak don't miss it.
A must read for all educators! If you ever have the opportunity to hear Mrs. Hundley speak don't miss it.
November 7, 2017
Amazing quick read! Truly inspirational from someone who had a horrible upbringing but made the best of every situation. Great book!
May 11, 2018
I would love to meet this woman. Her autobiography is inspiring.
January 16, 2019
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
March 20, 2019
Short, small book full of huge inspiration. Quote that sums up this book: "on the wings of God, there is no height you cannot reach". Excellent book!
March 25, 2019
Inspirational biography of Liz Huntley’s life growing up in Alabama. Story of the many obstacles that she was able to overcome.
December 25, 2019
Great book
This book makes you ant to be better. Makes you relize what you have to rise above is no that much...
This book makes you ant to be better. Makes you relize what you have to rise above is no that much...
January 20, 2020
2.5. Liz's story is incredibly inspirational and I enjoyed it. However, I think this book would have benefitted from further editing and more detail.
September 24, 2020
I got this book after I heard her speak at my district’s training. She certainly has a gift, a story, and a willingness to let God use her in any capacity that will bring Him the glory.
November 26, 2020
What an inspiration after an unimaginable upbringing. Praise God for Liz Huntley's life
July 26, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed this story of how a young girl overcame her rocky start with the help of Godly educators, ministers, friends, and family.
March 8, 2022
I liked this book. It was a little inappropriate but there was a happy ending!
March 24, 2022
Quick, but good book
This book reminds you that many have a tough life, but somehow they still succeed. Bravo to the author for sharing her painful story. What an inspiration!
This book reminds you that many have a tough life, but somehow they still succeed. Bravo to the author for sharing her painful story. What an inspiration!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews