MY BACKYARD BIRD BOOK

A colorful guide to birdwatching in the United States for children.

Bird calls are often the first thing a person will hear when they step outside; even if the birds are not visible, it’s probable that there are hundreds of different species living in the trees and bushes in any neighborhood. Kids who are curious about those birds and would like to identify them can refer to Johnson’s picture book, a guide to finding different avian species with common tools they will likely have readily at hand, including their eyes and ears, coloring supplies for notes and drawings, and, of course, a pair of binoculars. After reading through a glossary of ornithology terms to familiarize themselves with physical traits and common bird behaviors, readers can delve into the profiles of various specific birds. There are over 23 species listed, from the American crow to the white-breasted nuthatch; the guide dedicates two-page spreads to each, with one page featuring a full-color picture photo of the bird and the other providing facts such as the name of the species, what birds of that type look and sound like, their favorite food, and where they can be spotted during certain seasons. Additionally, the author provides some “Birding Tips,” simple activities to lure birds to the yard for observation. With this information at their fingertips, any child can identify the winged creatures living in their neighborhood and work toward becoming a “Junior Backyard Ornithologist.” Johnson’s second edition of this birding guide is filled with her gorgeous photographs and packed with practical exercises that encourage children to take an interest in their surroundings using everyday resources that are available at home. Data is explained in scientific terms but packaged in a way that is relatable to children—for example, readers learn that a black-capped chickadee (which is “comfortable around people”) is normally five inches in height, or the size of a pen, and weighs 0.4 ounces, or as much as ten jellybeans.

An educational, easy-to-use resource for budding naturalists.