Harriet's Ruffled Feathers: The Woman Who Saved Millions of Birds

Bird puns abound in this origin story of the National Audubon Society, focusing on the efforts of Boston socialite Harriet Lawrence Hemenway (1858-1960) to stop the killing of birds for hat plumes. Flying into action with cousin Minna, Hemenway first organized informative tea parties, then rallied "powerful, influential people" to form the Massachusetts Audubon Society, which quickly spread to other states. McCullough's prose maintains a playfully vintage flavor: "To think this bird should be deprived of its own finery for someone else's hat! A passion for fashion was one thing, but this was featherbrained!" Light-hued watercolors by Galotta combine delicate lines with simple figures of various skin tones, intricately rendered fashions, and near-realistic birds in this buoyant portrait of an early female conservationist. Back matter includes an author's note. Ages 4-8. (Mar.)

Gr 2-5--Harriet Lawrence Hemenway was an early environmentalist who cofounded the Massachusetts Audubon Society with Minna B. Hall. As a Boston socialite, Hemenway and her friends often wore beautiful hats adorned with bird feathers. Once made aware of the harm these fashion choices perpetuated, Hemenway began her activist movement to rid feathers from fashion. Her efforts were the inaugural steps of the first Audubon Society, and her lifelong dedication encouraged others to follow in her conservationist path. Lively text pairs perfectly with the dreamy, soft quality of the watercolor illustrations. This book not only tells Hemenway's story, but with extensive and engaging back matter, also encourages readers to stand up for issues they believe in. It includes information about the National Audubon Society, bird watching tips, resources for becoming a conservationist, and a detailed bibliography. VERDICT A thoughtful biography, with an encouraging message to budding activists, this picture book will be a welcome addition to any library collection.--Katherine Forsman