Explore the World of Birds

 

Birds: Explore Their Extraordinary World
by Miranda Krestovnikoff; illus by Angela Harding
64 pages; ages 6 and up
Bloomsbury Children's Books, 2021

Birds have conquered every continent on Earth, making homes in almost every habitat, from the freezing-cold polar regions to the lush tropics.

Chapters introduce readers to groups of birds, from Birds of Prey (eagles, owls, hawks) to sea birds – waders, soarers, and those that live in extreme climates. There’s a chapter about flightless birds, one focusing on tree dwellers, and one on passerines (perching birds). There’s even a nod to garden birds.

Other chapters focus on specific adaptations: feathers, beaks, nests, song, and migration. The book ends with what I think is a too-short section on urban birds, since those are some of the birds many of us see out and about the city.

What I like about this book: Though it’s filled with facts and makes an excellent reference, this book doesn’t feel encyclopedic. And the illustrations – linocuts – are stunning. This is a book that will inspire some kids to dive into learning more about birds. I suggest you pop this book in a bag along with the National Geographic Kids Ultimate Explorer Field Guide: Birds and a pair of binoculars. Then head out for an hour of birding at the park.

Beyond the Book:

Get to know the birds that live in your neighborhood. Early morning is a good time to watch and listen. Keep a notebook nearby so you can jot down notes about what birds you see – or, if you’re like me, what they look like (so you can look for them in a field guide later).

Check out this great resource for learning about birds: All About Birds. It’s got info on how to identify birds, where they nest, their songs and calls, what they eat, and more.

Build a bird bath with author Miranda Krestovnikoff. This video shows how.

Thanks for dropping by today. On Monday we'll be hanging out at Marvelous Middle Grade Monday with other  bloggers. It's over at Greg Pattridge's blog, Always in the Middle, so hop over to see what other people are reading. Review copy provided by the publisher.