40: Other Birds by Sarah Addison Allen – Heartfelt Endings & Haunting Revelations | Book Club Discussion - Session 2 cover art

40: Other Birds by Sarah Addison Allen – Heartfelt Endings & Haunting Revelations | Book Club Discussion - Session 2

40: Other Birds by Sarah Addison Allen – Heartfelt Endings & Haunting Revelations | Book Club Discussion - Session 2

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About this listen

This week, the Besties dive into the second half of Other Birds by Sarah Addison Allen, wrapping up their heartfelt, laughter-filled book club discussion.


Join Brianna and the “Female Fiction Reads Book Club” crew as they unpack magical realism, plot twists, and the beauty of found family in this gem of a novel. Get ready for deep reflections, surprising reveals, and honest conversations about grief, closure, human connection, and the ways books make us feel less alone.


In This Episode:

  • How the book’s ending both delighted and surprised the group

  • Why character integrity and personal values resonated with everyone

  • Magical touches: What’s up with Pigeon? And did everyone catch all the clues?

  • Grief, memory, and the stories we tell ourselves about people we’ve lost

  • The power and complexity of friendships—both instant and lifelong

  • Standout scenes: moving day, breakfast, and a Tupperware tangent you don’t want to miss!

  • Parallels with real life: what makes a friendship last, and how to find “your people”

  • The group’s favorite plot twists and character journeys (yes, Lucy and the “coming home” theme)

  • Visceral reactions: tears (happy and sad), laughter, goosebumps, and the comfort of a “warm blanket book”

Quotable Moments:

  • “This book really proves the bonds of friendship can be just as strong as the bonds of family.” – Catie

  • “She stayed true to her character … her trauma, her truth, and that’s who she was.” – Amy

  • “If the people around you don’t love you just as you are, find new people.” – Kello (as quoted by Zoe)

  • “You walked away from the book still with stuff to think about, but feeling good.” – Mary


Book Club Stars:
Other Birds earned a near-perfect 4.8/5 stars from the Badass Book Besties club.


Join the Conversation:
Share your thoughts, reactions, and favorite Other Birds moments with the Besties community at badassbookbesties.com. Want to join the book club or suggest a future read? There’s always a seat for you!


Connect with Brianna:
Instagram & Facebook: @badassbookbestie

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