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Flamingo Boy
Set in Camargue in the South of France during WWII, a young autistic boy lives on his parents' farm among the salt flats, and the flamingos that live there. There are lots of things he doesn't understand: but he does know how to heal animals. He loves routine, and music too: and every week he goes to market with his mother, to ride his special horse on the town carousel.
But then the Germans come, with their guns, and take the town. A soldier shoots a flamingo from the sky, and it falls to earth terribly injured. And even worse is to come: the carousel is damaged, the horses broken. For this vulnerable boy, everything is falling apart.
Only there's a kind sergeant among the Germans – a man with a young boy of his own at home, a man who trained as a carpenter. Between them, perhaps boy and man can mend what has been broken – and maybe even the whole town…
But then the Germans come, with their guns, and take the town. A soldier shoots a flamingo from the sky, and it falls to earth terribly injured. And even worse is to come: the carousel is damaged, the horses broken. For this vulnerable boy, everything is falling apart.
Only there's a kind sergeant among the Germans – a man with a young boy of his own at home, a man who trained as a carpenter. Between them, perhaps boy and man can mend what has been broken – and maybe even the whole town…
352 pages, Paperback
First published March 8, 2018
64 people are currently reading
614 people want to read
About the author
Michael Morpurgo
630 books3,022 followersSir Michael Andrew Morpurgo, OBE, FRSL is the author of many books for children, five of which have been made into films. He also writes his own screenplays and libretti for opera. Born in St Albans, Hertfordshire, in 1943, he was evacuated to Cumberland during the last years of the Second World War, then returned to London, moving later to Essex. After a brief and unsuccessful spell in the army, he took up teaching and started to write. He left teaching after ten years in order to set up 'Farms for City Children' with his wife. They have three farms in Devon, Wales and Gloucestershire, open to inner city school children who come to stay and work with the animals. In 1999 this work was publicly recognised when he and his wife were invested a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for services to youth. In 2003, he was advanced to an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE). He became a Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature (FRSL) in 2004. He was knighted in the 2018 for his services to literature and charity. He is also a father and grandfather, so children have always played a large part in his life. Every year he and his family spend time in the Scilly Isles, the setting for three of his books.
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May 11, 2018
“Close friends are truly life's treasures. Sometimes they know us better than we know ourselves. With gentle honesty, they are there to guide and support us, to share our laughter and our tears. Their presence reminds us that we are never really alone.”
----Vincent van Gogh
Michael Morpurgo, a bestselling English writer, has penned a delightful children's historical fiction called, Flamingo Boy that revolves around a young teenage boy, who after finding the real artists behind the painting in his room, journeys to the north of France, where he stumbles upon a family of an old woman and a strange old man living in a farm, and gradually the old lady narrates the story of that strange old man, who was once known as the Flamingo Boy, a story that involves the German invasion, the playful song of a carousel, friendship, laughter, even grief, a boy with healing powers and lots and lots of flamingos.
Synopsis:
A stunning new classic from master storyteller Michael Morpurgo for readers of 9+, in the vein of PRIVATE PEACEFUL and THE BUTTERFLY LION
This is a landmark new novel form the nation's favourite storyteller, set in the unique landscape of the Camargue in the South of France during WW2. There, a young autistic boy lives on his parents' farm among the salt flats, and the flamingos that live there. There are lots of things he doesn't understand: but he does know how to heal animals. He loves routine, and music too: and every week he goes to market with his mother, to ride his special horse on the town carousel.
But then the Germans come, with their guns, and take the town. A soldier shoots a flamingo from the sky, and it falls to earth terribly injured. And even worse is to come: the carousel is damaged, the horses broken. For this vulnerable boy, everything is falling apart.
Only there's a kind sergeant among the Germans – a man with a young boy of his own at home, a man who trained as a carpenter. Between them, perhaps boy and man can mend what has been broken – and maybe even the whole town.
One fine summer in England, Vincent found out about the artists and his story behind the boat painting hanging in his room, and that leads him to embark on a voyage to the north of France in a small sleepy sea side town called, Camargue where the artist, Vince Van Gogh, found his inspiration behind the boat painting. But on his way, Vincent, the young teenage protagonist of this story, stumbles upon a kind pair of couple living by the farm, when the old strange man rescues Vincent from a wild storm and takes him back to his home, where he was taken care of by a lovely old lady. That old lady later opens up her heart and narrates the story of the old strange man, who was once known as the "Flamingo Boy" and how German invasion disrupted the peace and snatched away happiness from their lives, and how that strange boy could heal the ailing animals on the farm and how he used to talk to the flamingos and so much more about their lost and happy past, that is the very foundation of their strong bond of friendship through love and war.
A spectacular historical children's fiction that narrates the story of pure, innocent friendship and its significance. The author has vividly captivated the essence of a long, forgotten past of German invasion and how it affected lives through his story. Not only that, the author has delightfully portrayed the eccentric character of an autistic child and the way he perceived the world around him in his unique way. This is a story within a story, where the author has explored the world in a sensitive, loving and honest manner to let his users reflect upon a bygone era and the importance of accepting and welcoming autistic children in the society.
The author's writing style is coherent, laced with enough emotions and suspense to keep the readers curious and intrigued and so the protagonist. The narrative is painted with enough realism and is easy to comprehend with, as the dialogues are kept simple yet evocative enough to make the readers feel deeply for the cast of the characters. The pacing is really fast, as the style of the story-telling by the second protagonist is done in an engaging manner. The backdrop of the small sea side town in the North of France comes alive right before the eyes of the readers through this tale, as the author has portrayed the background in a striking way, complete with tiny details so that his readers can visualize the town pretty vividly.
The characters in this book are extremely well developed that reflects their genuine demeanor through the tale. The main character Vincent is just an onlooker or rather say an observer of the main story line. Hence his character isn't explored in depths to give a strong personality in the eyes of the readers. Vincent is more like us, the readers. But the next two protagonists as well as the supporting cast of diverse characters are sketched in an impeccable way and those which reflect the pains of the war. But the best character would be the "Flamingo Boy" whose autism is not only penned in a sensitive and realistic manner, but with so much heart, charm and encouraging manner that will make the readers fall for this young, enthusiastic boy all at once.
In a nutshell, the story is not just a war story about two diverse families caught in the wrong side of it, but it is also about the people who are actually causing this war, and in center of it stands that amazing "Flamingo Boy" who screams "Fly, Flam Fly" to the flock of pink flamingos.
Verdict: This compelling, poignant and charming story is a must real for any and every age group of readers.
Courtesy: Thanks to the publishers from Harper Collins India, for giving me an opportunity to read and review this book.
----Vincent van Gogh
Michael Morpurgo, a bestselling English writer, has penned a delightful children's historical fiction called, Flamingo Boy that revolves around a young teenage boy, who after finding the real artists behind the painting in his room, journeys to the north of France, where he stumbles upon a family of an old woman and a strange old man living in a farm, and gradually the old lady narrates the story of that strange old man, who was once known as the Flamingo Boy, a story that involves the German invasion, the playful song of a carousel, friendship, laughter, even grief, a boy with healing powers and lots and lots of flamingos.
Synopsis:
A stunning new classic from master storyteller Michael Morpurgo for readers of 9+, in the vein of PRIVATE PEACEFUL and THE BUTTERFLY LION
This is a landmark new novel form the nation's favourite storyteller, set in the unique landscape of the Camargue in the South of France during WW2. There, a young autistic boy lives on his parents' farm among the salt flats, and the flamingos that live there. There are lots of things he doesn't understand: but he does know how to heal animals. He loves routine, and music too: and every week he goes to market with his mother, to ride his special horse on the town carousel.
But then the Germans come, with their guns, and take the town. A soldier shoots a flamingo from the sky, and it falls to earth terribly injured. And even worse is to come: the carousel is damaged, the horses broken. For this vulnerable boy, everything is falling apart.
Only there's a kind sergeant among the Germans – a man with a young boy of his own at home, a man who trained as a carpenter. Between them, perhaps boy and man can mend what has been broken – and maybe even the whole town.
One fine summer in England, Vincent found out about the artists and his story behind the boat painting hanging in his room, and that leads him to embark on a voyage to the north of France in a small sleepy sea side town called, Camargue where the artist, Vince Van Gogh, found his inspiration behind the boat painting. But on his way, Vincent, the young teenage protagonist of this story, stumbles upon a kind pair of couple living by the farm, when the old strange man rescues Vincent from a wild storm and takes him back to his home, where he was taken care of by a lovely old lady. That old lady later opens up her heart and narrates the story of the old strange man, who was once known as the "Flamingo Boy" and how German invasion disrupted the peace and snatched away happiness from their lives, and how that strange boy could heal the ailing animals on the farm and how he used to talk to the flamingos and so much more about their lost and happy past, that is the very foundation of their strong bond of friendship through love and war.
A spectacular historical children's fiction that narrates the story of pure, innocent friendship and its significance. The author has vividly captivated the essence of a long, forgotten past of German invasion and how it affected lives through his story. Not only that, the author has delightfully portrayed the eccentric character of an autistic child and the way he perceived the world around him in his unique way. This is a story within a story, where the author has explored the world in a sensitive, loving and honest manner to let his users reflect upon a bygone era and the importance of accepting and welcoming autistic children in the society.
The author's writing style is coherent, laced with enough emotions and suspense to keep the readers curious and intrigued and so the protagonist. The narrative is painted with enough realism and is easy to comprehend with, as the dialogues are kept simple yet evocative enough to make the readers feel deeply for the cast of the characters. The pacing is really fast, as the style of the story-telling by the second protagonist is done in an engaging manner. The backdrop of the small sea side town in the North of France comes alive right before the eyes of the readers through this tale, as the author has portrayed the background in a striking way, complete with tiny details so that his readers can visualize the town pretty vividly.
The characters in this book are extremely well developed that reflects their genuine demeanor through the tale. The main character Vincent is just an onlooker or rather say an observer of the main story line. Hence his character isn't explored in depths to give a strong personality in the eyes of the readers. Vincent is more like us, the readers. But the next two protagonists as well as the supporting cast of diverse characters are sketched in an impeccable way and those which reflect the pains of the war. But the best character would be the "Flamingo Boy" whose autism is not only penned in a sensitive and realistic manner, but with so much heart, charm and encouraging manner that will make the readers fall for this young, enthusiastic boy all at once.
In a nutshell, the story is not just a war story about two diverse families caught in the wrong side of it, but it is also about the people who are actually causing this war, and in center of it stands that amazing "Flamingo Boy" who screams "Fly, Flam Fly" to the flock of pink flamingos.
Verdict: This compelling, poignant and charming story is a must real for any and every age group of readers.
Courtesy: Thanks to the publishers from Harper Collins India, for giving me an opportunity to read and review this book.
March 31, 2018
‘Flamingo Boy’ (2018) is the latest novel from Michael Morpurgo and to some extent appears ostensibly to be exploring similar themes and territory as well as being set against a similar backdrop to many of his previous novels – a fairly typical WWII setting here along with Morpurgo’s seemingly ever present horses. Having said that, ‘Flamingo Boy’ is certainly not a re-tread of Morpurgo’s’ other novels and the familiar-ish setting is by no means to the detriment of this new story.
‘Flamingo Boy’ is located overwhelmingly in Northern France, more specifically the Camargue, and tells the story of how Vincent, our storyteller within a story, finds himself there – how he meets the eponymous ‘Flamingo Boy’ and the story which Vincent is told whilst there.
Much of the book is about differentness or otherness – about acceptance, rejection, understanding or lack thereof and is inspired at least in part by Morpurgo’s own autistic grandson. ‘Flamingo Boy’ is essentially about embracing and understanding otherness, whether it be a disability such as autism or ethnic differences – in this case Roma or Romani. Morpurgo also alludes here to the complex, selective, transient and sometimes fickle nature of racism and bigotry. A recurring theme of Morpurgo’s is present here also – the very human face of war and the simple assertion that there are ‘good’ people on both sides in a war; people who can be trusted despite being ostensibly the ‘enemy’.
As with many of Michael Morpurgo’s novels, this is an affecting, compelling and engaging story – simply and movingly told. Morpurgo is at heart a storyteller – as such, there is nothing here that feels extraneous and the momentum is successfully maintained throughout.
Whilst not quite Morpurgo at his finest (War Horse, Kensuke’s Kingdom, Alone on a Wide, Wide Sea et al) ‘Flamingo Boy’ is nevertheless a very strong story told with customary workmanlike efficiency and skill through the prolific pen of former ‘Children’s Laureate’ Michael Morpurgo.
‘Flamingo Boy’ is located overwhelmingly in Northern France, more specifically the Camargue, and tells the story of how Vincent, our storyteller within a story, finds himself there – how he meets the eponymous ‘Flamingo Boy’ and the story which Vincent is told whilst there.
Much of the book is about differentness or otherness – about acceptance, rejection, understanding or lack thereof and is inspired at least in part by Morpurgo’s own autistic grandson. ‘Flamingo Boy’ is essentially about embracing and understanding otherness, whether it be a disability such as autism or ethnic differences – in this case Roma or Romani. Morpurgo also alludes here to the complex, selective, transient and sometimes fickle nature of racism and bigotry. A recurring theme of Morpurgo’s is present here also – the very human face of war and the simple assertion that there are ‘good’ people on both sides in a war; people who can be trusted despite being ostensibly the ‘enemy’.
As with many of Michael Morpurgo’s novels, this is an affecting, compelling and engaging story – simply and movingly told. Morpurgo is at heart a storyteller – as such, there is nothing here that feels extraneous and the momentum is successfully maintained throughout.
Whilst not quite Morpurgo at his finest (War Horse, Kensuke’s Kingdom, Alone on a Wide, Wide Sea et al) ‘Flamingo Boy’ is nevertheless a very strong story told with customary workmanlike efficiency and skill through the prolific pen of former ‘Children’s Laureate’ Michael Morpurgo.
August 23, 2020
Aki szereti a romantikus regényeket, ne figyeljen ide. A Flamingó fiú nyilvánvalóan szép és megható történet emberségről, toleranciáról, másságról, háborúról és az állatok szeretetéről. Hogy egy regényben ez egy kicsit sok? Szerintem igen. Jártam Camargue tényleg különleges vidékén, és szívesebben olvastam volna erről részletesebben, nem csak ugyanazoknak a mondatoknak az ismételgetését a misztrálról, a felrepülő flamingókról és a farmon végzett munkákról. A vándorcigányok élete és a körhinta sem pörgette meg a cselekményt eléggé. Az autista Lorenzo ábrázolása elég jól sikerült, de nem vitte el a hátán a sztorit. Az meg, hogy a véletlenül idekeveredett 18 éves Vincent szájtátva hallgatja ezt a teljességgel kiszámítható történetet, végképp lemerített. Mindenki jóságos, becsületes, türelmes, dolgos – kivéve a gaz milicistákat. Súlytalan és hiteltelen történet, nehezen olvastam végig, fiataloknak sem ajánlom.
March 18, 2018
The story starts with young Vincent explaining why he wanted to travel to the South of France, on he's journey he is taken ill and elderly pair Kezia and Renzo who help nurse him back to full health.
Each night Kezia recounts a tale of what life was like growing up during the Second World War. Herself being a Roma gypsy girl and Renzo autism.
Morpurgo's delicate handling of Renzo's disability is the heart of the book.
My only criticism of the book itself is that it's a story in a story, this nullified any sense of threat.
All the scenes with Vincent did seem slightly pointless and dragged the story down for me.
Thought I can appreciate this is to make this book more accessible for younger readers.
Each night Kezia recounts a tale of what life was like growing up during the Second World War. Herself being a Roma gypsy girl and Renzo autism.
Morpurgo's delicate handling of Renzo's disability is the heart of the book.
My only criticism of the book itself is that it's a story in a story, this nullified any sense of threat.
All the scenes with Vincent did seem slightly pointless and dragged the story down for me.
Thought I can appreciate this is to make this book more accessible for younger readers.
September 27, 2023
One of the author's best works, I think. I found it believable and uplifting, especially because it shows that during World War II not all Germans were cruel, in fact they could be unbelievably kind. I also appreciated the way the autistic boy and adult was pictured - a truly lovable human being and a lesson to us all. Don't miss this book!
November 15, 2019
I enjoyed the book because it filled my heart with joy and it was the most happiest book I have ever read;my favourite character was Lorenzo because he never lets anyone get in his way and he also follows his dreams.
I also like Kezia because she makes Lorenzo happy and if she makes Lorenzo happy I knew if we met in real life she would make me happy
I also like Kezia because she makes Lorenzo happy and if she makes Lorenzo happy I knew if we met in real life she would make me happy
Read
September 6, 2021This book was not what I expected. I always knew there were flamingos in Europe, but somehow I was expecting a story of a kid in Africa, the white boy on the cover being the kid of a white soldier. Even thought it wasn't what I was expecting, it was as good, maybe even better. The boy, I suspect in Lorenzo, checking on his flamingos.
This story has a very satisfying ending, "a full circle", and Michael Morpurgo said, where everything comes to an end. Instead of a line, as most stories are, the ending seems to complete the beginning. Vincent finally learned the history of Kezia, Lorenzo, and the farmhouse. He also accomplished his goal from the start of the story, to get to the beach in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer in Camargue, without knowing it. Like me, he was bound to the story like a magnet.
This story has a very satisfying ending, "a full circle", and Michael Morpurgo said, where everything comes to an end. Instead of a line, as most stories are, the ending seems to complete the beginning. Vincent finally learned the history of Kezia, Lorenzo, and the farmhouse. He also accomplished his goal from the start of the story, to get to the beach in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer in Camargue, without knowing it. Like me, he was bound to the story like a magnet.
July 11, 2020
Loved it full review to follow!
March 8, 2018
Vintage Morpugo! Loved every chapter, every character, and after all the trials and tribulations of wartime France, a happy ending. A splendid binge-read. OK, I'm somewhat older than the "9-plus" age groups it is intended for, but I'll read anything Morpugo writes. His "Private Peaceful" helped me to understand my late uncle's condition of shell-shock (these days called PTSD). Each re-read of that book brings me to tears.
June 10, 2019
I really enjoyed this book, written by Michael Morpurgo. I have never read any of his books before but now I want to after reading this! The story is a fiction book with a war genre. It tells the story of a boy, called Vincent, who goes to France and is saved by a family when caught in a storm. Kezia, who lives at the house tells Vincent the story of her life which is really interesting and involves the Second World War, a carousel and flamingos! It is really gripping and a real page turner. I would recommend this book to people aged 13 onwards as it covers topics such as war which may be hard to understand for younger readers. Overall, an amazing book!
March 28, 2021
He's really trying to break my heart with this one
Starting this book, I have to admit I was worried that Michael Morpurgo's magic had been built up in my head from years of nostalgia, but wow this has to be one of my favourites of his.
It's definitely my favourite read of the year so far, everyone needs to read this one.
Starting this book, I have to admit I was worried that Michael Morpurgo's magic had been built up in my head from years of nostalgia, but wow this has to be one of my favourites of his.
It's definitely my favourite read of the year so far, everyone needs to read this one.
January 27, 2020
This book is my new favourite in the 30 book challenge it made me want read on and it was an amazing story!!
March 8, 2018
Flamingo Boy by Michael Morpurgo is a delightful historical children's novel that can be enjoyed by all ages. I am a granny and really enjoyed it.
Michael Morpurgo weaves a wonderful tale beginning in 1982, he then transports the reader back to the occupied south of France during World War II. The reader gets caught up in the war as the peaceful countryside is taken over by the Nazis.
There is the theme of trust. Not all Nazis were evil. They all wore uniforms but underneath some were men and not monsters. "In this uniform, I am Caporal Willi Brenner. Under this uniform, I am Herr Willi Brenner, husband, father and Lehrer."
The novel revolves around two children in the 1940's. One has special needs. It sounded like autism to me. He finds trusting hard but his instincts are key. If he likes you, you receive "an open-hearted smile, a smile of complete trust."
Children (and adults) with special needs may have an affinity with animals. The reader sees an animal whisperer who has patience, love and care. "He puts his hands on them, breathes on them and they get better."
There is a carousel in the story. This can be seen as a motif for French lives. "What looks broken can always be mended." Lives disrupted by the Nazis would one day be restored.
In spite of occupation, there is a calmness to the story. I think this is due to the tranquil setting and the personalities that radiate love. In the midst of war, there is an "oasis of peace."
When all seems hopeless, there is still prayer. "I kept praying... more in hope than in faith." The day that hope dies is the day that all will seem lost. We must keep hope alive.
I really loved Flamingo Boy. It is a story of love, of friendship, of hope in the midst of adversity and of a beautiful bond with animals. There is a wonderful gentle soul who is not sullied by the world and it is beautiful to witness.
An absolute joy to read.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
Michael Morpurgo weaves a wonderful tale beginning in 1982, he then transports the reader back to the occupied south of France during World War II. The reader gets caught up in the war as the peaceful countryside is taken over by the Nazis.
There is the theme of trust. Not all Nazis were evil. They all wore uniforms but underneath some were men and not monsters. "In this uniform, I am Caporal Willi Brenner. Under this uniform, I am Herr Willi Brenner, husband, father and Lehrer."
The novel revolves around two children in the 1940's. One has special needs. It sounded like autism to me. He finds trusting hard but his instincts are key. If he likes you, you receive "an open-hearted smile, a smile of complete trust."
Children (and adults) with special needs may have an affinity with animals. The reader sees an animal whisperer who has patience, love and care. "He puts his hands on them, breathes on them and they get better."
There is a carousel in the story. This can be seen as a motif for French lives. "What looks broken can always be mended." Lives disrupted by the Nazis would one day be restored.
In spite of occupation, there is a calmness to the story. I think this is due to the tranquil setting and the personalities that radiate love. In the midst of war, there is an "oasis of peace."
When all seems hopeless, there is still prayer. "I kept praying... more in hope than in faith." The day that hope dies is the day that all will seem lost. We must keep hope alive.
I really loved Flamingo Boy. It is a story of love, of friendship, of hope in the midst of adversity and of a beautiful bond with animals. There is a wonderful gentle soul who is not sullied by the world and it is beautiful to witness.
An absolute joy to read.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
November 25, 2019
I always look for books by Michael Morpurgo, author of War Horse. His books generally get published in the US two years or more after they are first released in the UK. He often writes about wars and conflicts and how they affect young people.
Flamingo Boy is another of his compelling and poignant WWII stories. Told in retrospect, it is the story of Lorenzo (Renzo), a young autistic boy who has a way with animals, especially the flamingos that nest on a nearby island. When a young Roma family comes to town with their carousel, Renzo notices and is drawn to the carved flamingos that surround the canopy of the carousel. Thus begins a friendship between Renzo and Kezia, a Roma girl the same age as Renzo and between their parents as well. Together these two families face the dangers brought on when the invading Germans take over the town and the disruptions to Renzo's quiet and ordered life. Geared towards children ages 9 and up, the story includes the bad with the good in showing how people (both children and adults) react towards those who are different from them, be they Roma, Jewish, or mentally challenged.
I like the way Michael Morpurgo's stories often contain a lesson that he presents in a gentle manner, without overkill, appropriate to the age of the book's intended audience. Flamingo Boy is another gem by this master storyteller.
Flamingo Boy is another of his compelling and poignant WWII stories. Told in retrospect, it is the story of Lorenzo (Renzo), a young autistic boy who has a way with animals, especially the flamingos that nest on a nearby island. When a young Roma family comes to town with their carousel, Renzo notices and is drawn to the carved flamingos that surround the canopy of the carousel. Thus begins a friendship between Renzo and Kezia, a Roma girl the same age as Renzo and between their parents as well. Together these two families face the dangers brought on when the invading Germans take over the town and the disruptions to Renzo's quiet and ordered life. Geared towards children ages 9 and up, the story includes the bad with the good in showing how people (both children and adults) react towards those who are different from them, be they Roma, Jewish, or mentally challenged.
I like the way Michael Morpurgo's stories often contain a lesson that he presents in a gentle manner, without overkill, appropriate to the age of the book's intended audience. Flamingo Boy is another gem by this master storyteller.
March 26, 2020
I really enjoyed this book. It's for young people but it doesn't feel childish. The criticism of the book is that it starts in the 80's and then tells the story of the war so the fact that you know that the main characters survive takes away the suspense. But I don't think that's the point of the book. It's a gentle story, not about the horrors of war or to moralise about the evil of the Nazis. It's about ordinary humans living through a horrible time.
I say ordinary, but one of them is very special. The two main characters are Kezia and Lorenzo. They live in the Camargue of France. They are children during the war, not brother and sister, but they come to be as close as siblings. Kezia is from a Roma family and Lorenzo lives on a farm. Lorenzo has autism, although it is never stated. Michael Mopurgo has a grandson with autism and wrote this book as sort of a tribute to him. You can tell that he gets autism because Lorenzo is beautifully and faithfully written. In this story, his family are accepting of him and help him to live life to the full. He has an affinity for animals, especially flamingos. Kezia becomes his closest companion and they support each other through the horrible years of the war.
Another good character is the German Captain. He is German, the enemy, but he has a kind heart. Can he be trusted? Should he be trusted? Should he be scorned? Life is often ambiguous.
I say, enjoy the book for the characters and the gentle story. It's a beautiful book.
I say ordinary, but one of them is very special. The two main characters are Kezia and Lorenzo. They live in the Camargue of France. They are children during the war, not brother and sister, but they come to be as close as siblings. Kezia is from a Roma family and Lorenzo lives on a farm. Lorenzo has autism, although it is never stated. Michael Mopurgo has a grandson with autism and wrote this book as sort of a tribute to him. You can tell that he gets autism because Lorenzo is beautifully and faithfully written. In this story, his family are accepting of him and help him to live life to the full. He has an affinity for animals, especially flamingos. Kezia becomes his closest companion and they support each other through the horrible years of the war.
Another good character is the German Captain. He is German, the enemy, but he has a kind heart. Can he be trusted? Should he be trusted? Should he be scorned? Life is often ambiguous.
I say, enjoy the book for the characters and the gentle story. It's a beautiful book.
January 24, 2022
I have been a fan of Michael Morpurgo for years, ever since I read The Butterfly Lion when it had been first published. His affinity with animals, his gentle writing style and touching storylines always make his novels engaging and moving. Flamingo Boy was no exception.
I loved all the characters in this novel, especially Lorenzo, who was an absolute joy. His ability to connect with animals; his patience, love and care of them; his exuberance for life and his open-hearted smile made me want to wrap my arms around him and hug him. I could easily picture him flapping his arms and honking like a flamingo, and this put a smile on my face. The friendship he had with Kezia, a young Roma girl, was beautiful.
I also loved the story of the carousel, the flamingos and the underlying messages of friendship, hope, family and acceptance. A poignant read for tweens.
I loved all the characters in this novel, especially Lorenzo, who was an absolute joy. His ability to connect with animals; his patience, love and care of them; his exuberance for life and his open-hearted smile made me want to wrap my arms around him and hug him. I could easily picture him flapping his arms and honking like a flamingo, and this put a smile on my face. The friendship he had with Kezia, a young Roma girl, was beautiful.
I also loved the story of the carousel, the flamingos and the underlying messages of friendship, hope, family and acceptance. A poignant read for tweens.
April 19, 2018
I wonder at times with war in the background (theme) how could one write so many stories. Each story different and interesting. I wait for his books. Waiting always gives its results. This book is no exception. Easy, quick read about friendship, war and enemy. The relationship between humans, animals.
April 19, 2018
I couldn't put this book down and I highly recommend this. Their struggles seemed to come to life through Micheal morpurgos writing. I love Micheal morpurgo books and this one definitely delivered
December 23, 2018
Another lovely story from the wonderful author of Warhorse. It is about a boy who is different, and the little Roma girl who befriends him. I enjoyed the beguiling setting of the French Camargue, and although it is set during World War Two, it has a heartwarming, happy ending. The book focuses on hope, which is much needed during these dark times.
May 4, 2024
Beautiful!!!
November 11, 2019
This is a really good book about a child with an affinity with nature, in a war situation. This story starts with a modern young man, Vincent, following the idea of another Vincent, van Gogh, painting a boat on this particular beach, on holiday before he decides what to do with his life. The story he tells with his painting and love for animals is really good.
June 26, 2019
Beautiful book. Very detailed. I like how most of it was speech.
July 26, 2019
Like all of Michael Morpurgo's books I really enjoyed reading this book! One of the things I live about his books is the way they move between the past and present throughout the book, and are written in the form of diaries, or in this case a spoken story to one of the characters. My favourite character was Lorenzo, because of his love and care for the animals and people around him.
April 11, 2021
I wonder at times with war in the background (theme) how could one write so many stories. Each story different and interesting. I wait for his books. Waiting always gives its results. This book is no exception. Easy, quick read about friendship, war and enemy. The relationship between humans, animals.
I really enjoyed this book. It's for young people but it doesn't feel childish. The criticism of the book is that it starts in the '80s and then tells the story of the war so the fact that you know that the main characters survive takes away the suspense. But I don't think that's the point of the book. It's a gentle story, not about the horrors of war or to moralise about the evil of the Nazis. It's about ordinary humans living in a horrible time.
I really enjoyed this book. It's for young people but it doesn't feel childish. The criticism of the book is that it starts in the '80s and then tells the story of the war so the fact that you know that the main characters survive takes away the suspense. But I don't think that's the point of the book. It's a gentle story, not about the horrors of war or to moralise about the evil of the Nazis. It's about ordinary humans living in a horrible time.
October 16, 2019
This book was definitely my new favourite when the war starts and Kezia has to hide from the milice and it is full of action throughout the whole book it was quite funny and Lorenzo cannot speak proper words he also loves flamingos so he is called flamingo bird because he always says flam flam and flaps his arms whenever he sees one.My favourite character was Lorenzo but in the story he is called Renzo and Kezia gets called Zia by Renzo.Itis really interesting about the carousel and when they more around the places.Zia goes to school and also gets called gyppo girl so she started getting homeschooled with Nancy(Renzo mum).
July 26, 2018
This story is so stereotypical of the kind this author creates and the fact he still does it is why I choose to still read them myself even now my Son is older.
In modern day France our protagonist meets a lady and her autistic friend who go on to tell him the tales of how life was for them when the County was War torn, what happened when the German soldiers came to town and how the carousel and flamingo's on the land helped them rebuild their lives.
There are underlying messages in the historical story and we analyse friendships and how different people can pull together in the face of adversity.
Although aged at a young audience this tale is one of those that will warm the heart of readers any age.
A special book I would recommend.
My thanks go to the author, publisher and Netgalley for providing this arc in return for a honest review.
In modern day France our protagonist meets a lady and her autistic friend who go on to tell him the tales of how life was for them when the County was War torn, what happened when the German soldiers came to town and how the carousel and flamingo's on the land helped them rebuild their lives.
There are underlying messages in the historical story and we analyse friendships and how different people can pull together in the face of adversity.
Although aged at a young audience this tale is one of those that will warm the heart of readers any age.
A special book I would recommend.
My thanks go to the author, publisher and Netgalley for providing this arc in return for a honest review.
May 11, 2025
It was alright. Hard to follow though.
July 25, 2019
Wow ! A bitter sweet story of love, friendship, family and of course flamingos in the time of war. Very well written. Excellent middle grade read.
July 24, 2025
Flamingo Boy is one of those rare, luminous books that don’t just tell a story—they settle into your soul and change the way you see the world. Michael Morpurgo, with his signature grace and emotional depth, crafts a tale that is at once a wartime survival story, a celebration of difference, and a testament to the quiet, extraordinary power of kindness.
Set against the haunting backdrop of World War II in the Camargue region of France, the story follows Vincent, a boy whose autism (though never named outright) makes him see the world in ways others don’t—especially his deep connection to the flamingos that grace the salt marshes. When the war encroaches on his isolated, idyllic world, Vincent’s life intertwines with that of Lorenzo, a kind-hearted Roma boy, and Kezia, a determined young woman fighting her own battles. Together, they form a family of outsiders, proving that love and acceptance can flourish even in the darkest times.
Morpurgo’s writing is, as always, exquisite. He paints the Camargue with such vivid, poetic strokes that you can almost feel the wind rippling through the reeds and hear the distant cry of flamingos taking flight. But it’s his characters who truly shine. Vincent is one of the most authentic, tenderly rendered neurodivergent characters I’ve encountered in children’s literature—not a stereotype or a lesson, but a fully realized boy whose way of seeing the world is treated with reverence, not pity. Lorenzo and Kezia are equally compelling, their resilience and compassion offering a counterpoint to the cruelty of war.
What makes Flamingo Boy so extraordinary is how Morpurgo balances harsh historical truths with unwavering hope. He doesn’t shy away from the horrors of Nazi occupation or the persecution of Roma people, but he also infuses the story with moments of breathtaking humanity—small acts of courage, unlikely friendships, and the enduring beauty of nature. The result is a book that acknowledges the worst of the world while stubbornly, beautifully insisting on the best.
This is a five-star read in every sense. It’s a book that will make you cry, yes, but also one that will leave you with a renewed belief in the power of empathy. Morpurgo has given us a gift—a story that is as urgent as it is timeless, as tender as it is fierce. Flamingo Boy isn’t just for children; it’s for anyone who needs reminding that even in brokenness, there is light, and that sometimes, the people who are called “different” are the ones who save us all.
Set against the haunting backdrop of World War II in the Camargue region of France, the story follows Vincent, a boy whose autism (though never named outright) makes him see the world in ways others don’t—especially his deep connection to the flamingos that grace the salt marshes. When the war encroaches on his isolated, idyllic world, Vincent’s life intertwines with that of Lorenzo, a kind-hearted Roma boy, and Kezia, a determined young woman fighting her own battles. Together, they form a family of outsiders, proving that love and acceptance can flourish even in the darkest times.
Morpurgo’s writing is, as always, exquisite. He paints the Camargue with such vivid, poetic strokes that you can almost feel the wind rippling through the reeds and hear the distant cry of flamingos taking flight. But it’s his characters who truly shine. Vincent is one of the most authentic, tenderly rendered neurodivergent characters I’ve encountered in children’s literature—not a stereotype or a lesson, but a fully realized boy whose way of seeing the world is treated with reverence, not pity. Lorenzo and Kezia are equally compelling, their resilience and compassion offering a counterpoint to the cruelty of war.
What makes Flamingo Boy so extraordinary is how Morpurgo balances harsh historical truths with unwavering hope. He doesn’t shy away from the horrors of Nazi occupation or the persecution of Roma people, but he also infuses the story with moments of breathtaking humanity—small acts of courage, unlikely friendships, and the enduring beauty of nature. The result is a book that acknowledges the worst of the world while stubbornly, beautifully insisting on the best.
This is a five-star read in every sense. It’s a book that will make you cry, yes, but also one that will leave you with a renewed belief in the power of empathy. Morpurgo has given us a gift—a story that is as urgent as it is timeless, as tender as it is fierce. Flamingo Boy isn’t just for children; it’s for anyone who needs reminding that even in brokenness, there is light, and that sometimes, the people who are called “different” are the ones who save us all.
January 2, 2023
In the 1980s Vincent goes to the far south of France to see the location where Vincent Van Gogh painted the boats he has hanging on his wall given to him by his grandparents. While in the Camargue he falls ill and is found and taken in by an older gentleman and lady named Lorenzo and Kezia. While recuperating, Kezia shares how she and Lorenzo met and became like brother and sister in the 1940s just as the Germans came to this region of France. And so Vincent hears a tale of two families drawn close, of a carousel run by a Roma family with a friendless little girl who needs schooling, a little boy who couldn't speak much but had an uncanny gift with animals, especially the local flamingoes, and a German soldier stuck in the machinations of war but not totally helpless.
This is a quieter WWII tale in that it is told from the perspective of a 12ish year old girl who was in such a remote spot the war doesn't come to them until quite late, and even then, she is sheltered from much of the horrors of the war. There's a theme in the story to not judge people by outward appearances. Lorenzo is obviously on the autism spectrum and is just barely vocal, but he has a gift with animals and hidden depths in his perceptiveness and understanding of the world at large. Kezia's family is Roma, and she is shunned by village children because of that, but she also has hidden qualities those who take the time to get to know her will value. And then there's the German Caporal who is assigned to their village. A man who represents much evil, but is himself..., well, I can't say too much without spoilers. We'll just say this is a story about kindness of the Good Samaritan variety, the kind that comes from the least expected places and people.
Notes on content: No language issues. No sexual content. There is one explosion and 2 shootings and one catastrophic storm, but only animals (only 1 fatally thanks to Lorenzo's talents) and property are injured. It is mentioned a Jewish teacher in town is taken to a camp and doesn't survive but this is not described or shown at all. Two others are taken to a camp and suffer from malnutrition (no description of what they experienced). Some hateful comments to Kezia's Roma family, Lorenzo because of his disability, and the Jewish teacher.
This is a quieter WWII tale in that it is told from the perspective of a 12ish year old girl who was in such a remote spot the war doesn't come to them until quite late, and even then, she is sheltered from much of the horrors of the war. There's a theme in the story to not judge people by outward appearances. Lorenzo is obviously on the autism spectrum and is just barely vocal, but he has a gift with animals and hidden depths in his perceptiveness and understanding of the world at large. Kezia's family is Roma, and she is shunned by village children because of that, but she also has hidden qualities those who take the time to get to know her will value. And then there's the German Caporal who is assigned to their village. A man who represents much evil, but is himself..., well, I can't say too much without spoilers. We'll just say this is a story about kindness of the Good Samaritan variety, the kind that comes from the least expected places and people.
Notes on content: No language issues. No sexual content. There is one explosion and 2 shootings and one catastrophic storm, but only animals (only 1 fatally thanks to Lorenzo's talents) and property are injured. It is mentioned a Jewish teacher in town is taken to a camp and doesn't survive but this is not described or shown at all. Two others are taken to a camp and suffer from malnutrition (no description of what they experienced). Some hateful comments to Kezia's Roma family, Lorenzo because of his disability, and the Jewish teacher.
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