Perspectives

In what follows, we will give you some points related to literary period, similar works, and current issues that will help you put “Tea with the Birds” by Joanne Harris in perspective.

Literary period

“Tea with the Birds” is a postmodernist short story. Postmodernism developed as a literary movement following World War II and as a reaction to Modernism. Postmodernist writers explore contemporary themes and issues...

...

Current issues

The story explores how our societies promote increasing isolation by focusing on the disappearance of community spirit and neighbourly interactions. These issues are still very relevant today,...

...

Works with the same theme

For the themes of isolation and loneliness, we recommend that you read stories like “Mrs Vadnie Marlene Sevlon” by Jackie Kay, “The Red Line” by Charlie Higson, and “Number 4o” by Sarah Butler.

Jackie Kay’s short story follows an immigrant woman who lives in the UK. Having no friends and family, the woman invents...

...