Follow the Flyway: The Marvel of Bird Migration

K-Gr 4--The life cycle of 12 migrating birds is the construct of this appealing picture book. Starting when they are eggs, then onto hatching, the book follows along as these young birds grow feathers and soon learn to fly. As the seasons change, they get ready to migrate to a warmer climate where food is plentiful and the environment accommodating. The birds featured in this text represent those using the Mississippi flyway route. An impressive use of rhythm, rhyme, onomatopoeia, and word imagery endows this science-based book with a strong literary component. The pencil and water-based paint illustrations perfectly capture the birds in their natural habitats. Depicted in an Impressionistic style, but easily defined, each kind of bird is given energy, beauty, and purpose. While the poetic narrative and wonderful illustrations are already outstanding, the back matter may outshine both. "The Birds of the Flyway" section contains facts that honor each of the featured birds as unique and fascinating. Other back matter includes additional facts, sources, and further reading. VERDICT Recommended as a lyrical read-aloud and an informational text.--Lynne Stover

A charming beginning look at North American migration flyways.