- This is an exciting adventure and friendship story by a much-loved, award winning author. Gracie and her friend, Daniel have always been warned to stay away from the Birdman and his side of the island. But then, they find a message in the sand and discover the Birdman is not who they thought. They build up a lovely friendship with him, but when the children get stranded on Samson Island they don"t know whether to believe the birdman"s story that the island is cursed. Set on a remote island against the backdrop of World War I, this story will captivate and delight young readers.