Uplift by Jessica Mann

Born in a spruce tree to a proud clan of Clark’s Nutcrackers, Columbina and her brothers spend long winter nights in the nest listening to the elders recite the ancient tales, while in summer they collect the rich seeds of the ancient pines that they depend on for survival. But Columbina, with her sharp intellect and deep curiosity, begins to question the old ways and traditions of the clan. She befriends others--birds and animals not of her own kind--and learns of the Tall Ones, fearsome creatures from the southland who bring death and destruction. And while her family remains in denial, Columbina realizes the growing peril. How much is Columbina willing to risk for others? And can she lead them against the danger threatening their common home?