"The strength of this novel is how it compellingly tells the story of a nomadic young woman who finds a way to ground herself while learning to soar." -- Booklist "A sensual portrait of a young woman with dance in her blood and fire in her soul, who moves beyond the need for approval to discover her individuality." -- Publishers Weekly "[A]n extraordinary tale of a young woman's search for a place to belong." -- Library Media Connection "As fiery and intense as the Spanish dances she loves, the half-gypsy Drina takes us on a journey through a world at war as she searches for love, family, and the freedom to be who she is. This is a wonderful achievement, full of passion, compassion, and truth." --Karen Cushman, author of the Newbery Award winning The Midwife's Apprentice "The power in this extraordinary novel lies in the vividness of its details. I believed every word of the passion and pain in this transcendent story about the tough choices of the artistic life, the powerful bonds of family, the madness of war, and the courage required of ordinary people. I could not put it down, and I will think about it for a long time.
" --Suzanne Fischer Staples, author of the Newbery Honor Book, Shabanu "A powerful novel with a compelling heroine set during the turmoil of the Spanish Civil War. You'll love the choices Drina makes." --Patricia Reilly Giff, author of the Newbery Honor books, Lily's Crossing and Pictures of Hollis Woods "In haunting, vivid prose Mariconda brilliantly recreates the passion of flamenco. Drina's powerful urge to dance is both the gift and the curse that propels her to seek her destiny in the midst of war-torn Spain; a journey that leads her to encounters with love, death, loss, and the unexpected discovery of a true home. Bird with the Heart of a Mountain reveals how a passionate commitment to art may heal the soul and connect us to one another." --Judith Ortiz Cofer, author of An Island Like You "Barbara Mariconda's vividly lyrical prose will sweep you back in time, bringing the mysterious gypsy world of her spirited young heroine to life. You'll feel yourself dancing right along beside Drina on her powerful journey toward self-discovery, and you will marvel at every graceful step she takes." --Lisa Fiedler, author of Romeo's Ex: Rosaline's Story.