NNFN2024: An Anthology of Exquisite Birds

Once again, I must apologise for the lack of photos. Despite having contacted Squarespace and followed their ‘advice’, the site is still not working correctly.

For day 20 of National Non-Fiction November, I am sharing ‘An Anthology of Exquisite Birds’, a very beautiful book which I wish I could hare pictures of- however, enough of my frustration!

Ben Hoare’s passion for birds and desire to inspire and enthuse others is absolutely infectious and, although I am not a fan of the term ‘gift book’, this one would make a very special present for any bird lover.

The contents introduces the reader to the wealth of birds captured in its pages. Sections indicated in italics focus on more generic topics like ‘beaks’ or ‘eggs’ which offer comparisons and comments about specific breeds of bird. Everything is beautifully presented: inside, a mixture of photographs and illustrations on each spread, outside, gold page edges and an embossed cover.

Readers learn how many of these birds got their names as well as some of the myths and legends associated with them. There is such a wealth of knowledge here- you might start by looking up a specific bird, but the easy style of the text and the author’s great knowledge and enthusiasm will lead you to others. A real gem, this is an absolute keeper!

An Anthology of Exquisite Birds

Ben Hoare, illustrated by Angela Rizza and Daniel Long

DK ISBN: 978-0241674963

Fly: A child’s guide to birds and how to spot them

In the same series as ‘Glow: A child’s guide to the night sky’ and ‘Grow: A first guide to plants and how to grow them’, ‘Fly: A child’s guide to birds and how to spot them’ is another beautifully presented book from Magic Cat which seeks to engage children with the beauty and wonder of the world around them.

David Lindo, the Urban Birder, takes the reader on a journey of discovery, sharing his fascination with birds and seeking to engage the next generation of bird lovers. Each section focuses on an element relating to birds- feathers, wings, migration, various habitats- and introduces a specific bird in relation to this before looking at other birds and adaptations. There is also an ‘around the world’ section in which the author delves into the world of folklore and mythology, showing how cultures across the ages have been inspired by birds.

The book is beautifully presented with a clear introduction to each section, labelled diagrams and fact boxes. A clear glossary supports comprehension of technical terms whilst the contents page allows the reader to both browse for interest and locate specific information. Beautifully illustrated and packed with fascinating information, this book is sure to be a real hit with bird lovers and offer an amazing introduction for those who wish to know more.

Fly: A child’s guide to birds and how to spot them

David Lindo, illustrated by Sara Boccaccini Meadows

Magic Cat    ISBN: 978-1915569295

You can read my review of ‘Glow’ here and ‘The Extraordinary World of Birds’ by David Lindo here.

Birds of a Feather

Produced in collaboration with the National Trust, ‘Birds of a Feather’ combines information about ten beautiful birds with the interactive element of creating 3D models. Perfect for children interested in nature or for encouraging imaginative play, this book is an excellent addition to any shelves.

The models are constructed by pressing out the sturdy card pieces which then slot together. Illustrated on both sides, string can be added to each bird so that they can hang as a flock either as decoration or as a constant talking point, the focus for much learning. However, there is the added bonus of being able to press the pieces back into their spaces ready to be used again and again unlike many books of this ilk where bits are easily lost, leading to frustration and disappointment.

Behind the sturdy board pages is a beautifully illustrated information section with a section about each of the birds. Not only does this offer facts about the bird’s appearance, diet and habitat, but there is a wealth of folklore and legend here as well, all sure to ignite curiosity and inspire further research. It’s a great way of engaging children with nature and developing their observational skills as well as their reading! ‘Birds of a Feather’ would make an excellent gift this Christmas!

Birds of a Feather

Lauren Fairgrieve, illustrated by Kate Read

Nosy Crow in collaboration with the National Trust

ISBN: 978-1839942723

The Extraordinary World of Birds

David Lindo, also known as The Urban Birder, shares his fascination for birds in this absorbing book about our feathered friends. ‘The Extraordinary World of Birds’ is divided into five sections: What is a bird?; Bird Families; Bird Behaviour; Bird Habitats and Birds and Me. The detailed index is perfect for enabling readers to locate specific information and the glossary explains some of the technical vocabulary used.

The ‘What is a bird?’ section not only explains what birds are, but also offers information about how they fly, the nests they build, their eggs and diet. It also contains a fascinating spread on some record breaking birds, like the peregrine falcon- not only the fastest bird, but the fastest animal in the world.

The next section explains how all of the world’s species of birds can be grouped into different families based on characteristics they share. Packed full of amazing information, there is so much to learn here- and so much to look out for when appreciating the birds around us. The book is illustrated with a mixture of photographs and drawings, making each spread very appealing.

As well as being perfect for children to enjoy at home, there is much here which supports learning in science and geography. Different biomes and habitats are explored as well as adaptations birds have made to survive. The impact of climate change is also considered.

The final section, ‘Birds and Me’, looks at our relationship with these fascinating creatures and what we can do to help them thrive. A spread on birding offers helpful tips to those who might be inspired to give it a go! The book also looks at national birds which countries have adopted, some unofficially.

Sure to inspire an interest in these incredible creatures, ‘The Extraordinary World of Birds’ is a fascinating and informative read.

The Extraordinary World of Birds

David Lindo, illustrated by Claire McElfatrick

DK ISBN: 978-0241529058