At the River Bend

Fresh from the nest, Wally spreads his wings. As he explores his neighbourhood along the riverbend, unexpected encounters raise intriguing questions. Like, who is the human providing him with delicious snacks? And why? Most importantly, can magpies learn to manipulate the minds of humans so they provide more food?

When Wally’s feisty cousin, Tallulah, suggests this is possible, he wants to know more. He starts learning an ancient mind control technique – and gets much more than he expected. Does he have hidden powers?

He learns that humans are dangerous and destructive. But they’re also curiously compelling creatures, more like magpies than his dad, Dave, would have him believe. Before too long his encounters with humans also produce unanticipated consequences for Wally.

Soon life heads in unforeseen directions. Wally starts to wonder about the waiting wider world. Tallulah’s ambition to fly far is contagious. He’s getting itchy wings and decides it’s time to have a look.

But when adventure opens up a can of worms, will they be the kind Wally likes eating?