Birds: Explore Their Extraordinary World

Better for appreciation than information, this attractive title is suitable for larger collections and dedicated bird lovers.

Gr 4-6--Birds evolved from dinosaurs. As they spread across the world into almost every habitat, they showcased flight, plumage, and distinctive songs and calls. Harding's vivid linocut illustrations complement short chapters that detail specific habitats. The text also explains how avian characteristics such as feathers and beaks ensure the bird's success in these environments. The chapter on birds of prey provides astonishing facts: The largest is the 30-pound Andean condor; the tall secretary bird of Africa kills by kicking its prey to death. Specific locations of outstanding species are not always mentioned, such as the smelliest (hoatzin) and the bird with the longest bill (the sword-billed hummingbird). Sometimes the general nature of the short descriptions omits important details. For example, the osprey's talons are described as "backward-facing," but only the outer talon can rotate to secure a more stable grip on a captured fish. The illustrations are striking; the depiction of the fierce golden eagle is wonderful. VERDICT An ambitious, gorgeous overview of bird adaptations.--Frances E. Millhouser, formerly at Fairfax County P.L., VA

In an introduction and 14 sections, including "Birds of prey," "Flightless birds," "Migration," "Birdsong," and "Urban birds," wildlife expert Krestovnikoff presents a comprehensive overview of dinosaurs' feathery descendants. Told in approachable prose, each section pinpoints facts that young readers will find interesting, including fastest species, impressive features, and "very unusual adaptations." For example, about vultures' bald necks, "this might not look very appealing, but it's thought that the lack of feathers is helpful when they thrust their necks deep inside carcasses to feed, as any feathers would get caked in blood." Boldface subheadings further organize chapters, spotlighting details about certain species, including grebes, great bustards, and bowerbirds. Stunning linocuts by fine artist Harding offer textured, intricate illustrations of many bird types, rendered in a naturalistic palette. This well-designed resource will prove a good gift for budding avian enthusiasts or anyone who appreciates nature trivia. Ages 6-9. (Apr.)

"Intriguing facts [with] bits of information that are likely to stick in readers' minds....Even more striking are the illustrations, both black-and-white wood engravings and silk-screened linocuts." —Kirkus Reviews