Super Short Summary

Homeless Bird by Gloria Whelan follows Koly, a 13-year-old girl in India, whose arranged marriage leaves her a young widow. Navigating societal oppression and familial hostility, she eventually finds refuge in a shelter for widows. There, she builds friendships, hones her embroidery skills, and meets Raji, a supportive suitor. As she transitions from reliance to independence, Koly discovers a promising future. This narrative contains descriptions of verbal and emotional abuse, and an attempted sexual assault.