06/30/2023
Gr 1–2—This highly browsable view into the world of birds is informative and visually compelling. It includes large spreads on habitat and anatomy, as well as different kinds of birds and the amazing things they do to survive in a wide variety of climates and habitats. The digital illustrations have the look of collage, and throughout the book there are interactive elements to encourage readers to search and find. The text does not provide enough detail on any one topic for research purposes, but for an introduction to the avian world this engaging title should spark curiosity for young bird enthusiasts. VERDICT For an introduction to the wide world of birds, this visually appealing title is recommended for collections looking to update their shelves.—John Scott
2022-11-29
There are birds everywhere, but what’s a bird?
Defining birds as creatures that have beaks, two wings, and feathers, this colorful collection is the fourth of an ongoing series; bugs, fish, and reptiles came before, and mammals are on the way. The format is appealing. Each spread covers a distinct topic, sometimes with a large variety of differing examples, sometimes focusing on one species or activity. The author focuses on the barn owl to describe the habits of raptors, penguins for child rearing, and Arctic terns for migration. (The clever design emphasizes the tern’s long-distance voyage by requiring the reader to turn the book vertically to read that spread.) Besides the interesting facts, most spreads include an invitation to take a more careful look, with a seek-and-find puzzle or guessing game. Informative text appears in short blocks printed on an illustrative background, sometimes with lines or arrows to help readers figure out what to read next. Topics include bird anatomy, descent from dinosaurs, habitats, feathers and flight, courtship, nesting, migration, and the relationship between birds and humans. Unusually, the author distinguishes possible prehistoric ancestors of songbirds, waterbirds, and raptors. In conclusion, she tells readers how to do some bird-watching themselves. There are no sources or suggestions for further research, but the writer’s many previous natural history titles show her longtime engagement with the subject. (This book was reviewed digitally.)
An inviting, accessible, information-filled package. (Informational picture book. 7-10)
