What We’re Reading: Red Bird by Diandra Ford Wing

Dive into Diandra Ford Wing’s debut novel, Red Bird, an amazing story of finding peace through the pain of loss.

On the latest episode of Speaking in First Draft, author Diandra Ford-Wing shared the sometimes painful, yet ultimately rewarding process of working on her self-published memoir, Red Bird. Through vivid storytelling, Diandra recounts her childhood in a military family, the joys of growing up alongside a strong, loving father, and the heartbreak of losing him. But amidst the sorrow, a mysterious red bird began appearing at pivotal moments—a symbol of hope, connection, and healing.

Red Bird explores themes of grief, healing, and personal growth. The protagonist navigates the complex emotions following the loss of two of her most cherished family members while learning to embrace both her sorrow and the joyful memories they shared.

Throughout her therapy sessions, the narrator discovers that acknowledging their grief does not mean being overwhelmed by it; instead, it opens the door to joy and hope. She embarks on a journey of self-discovery, re-evaluating her self-worth and redefining success on her own terms. Inspired by her mother’s legacy, the protagonist begins to redefine her passion for work and what she ultimately wants to do with her life, signifying a reclaiming of her autonomy and purpose.