Cover Art Analysis

On the cover of the book is a bird. Throughout the book, Cole mentions birds very frequently, both facts about them and also Julius's interest in them. They are important to him because of their freedom and ability to immigrate, just like he did. While Julius normally thinks about flying birds, the one on the cover is sitting. Perhaps this is to indicate that he finally is beginning to feel comfortable where he is. Birds are one the more common symbols, as well as the most important to Julius, so putting it on the cover seems very appropriate.