Meet Bobbin the Robin
Bobbin the robin is a favourite character of mine in Will You Stay Another Day? Some fun facts about robins? Their breast is actually orange, but even though oranges arrived in the UK in the 1300s, that word wasn’t used to describe a colour until the 16th century – so the nearest word available to describe the robin’s breast was red. Robins are extremely territorial and will fiercely defend their space. And Victorian postmen were nicknamed robins due to the colour of their uniform.
What about some robin myths? There are plenty to choose from and more than one surround their red breast. One belief is that they acquired this colour due to the robin burning it on a fire it was fanning to keep the Baby Jesus warm. Another is that they predict death – or that by damaging a robin’s nest you are inviting bad luck your way.
And a very common myth is that they are a sign a loved one is near. In Will You Stay Another Day? Lili’s best friend, Em, has been missing for a year and Lili builds up a relationship with Bobbin who visits her garden. She feeds the bird and off-loads her problems, in the same way she used to chat with Em. Bobbin’s beautiful singing and humorous character bring Lili great comfort.
I love to see a robin in the garden and they are mainly non-migratory so in the UK we can observe their antics all year around. I hope Bobbin brings a smile to your face in the story, and that you enjoy this feathered friend’s ending as much as I enjoyed writing it.