BEST NEST

This debut author-illustrated picture book by Wasko catalogs 12 species of birds and their methods of nest-building.

Wasko’s picture book begins with a gentle introduction to the avian world: “All birds are different, like you and like me, / but not all birds make their home in a tree. / Each has their own way of making a nest, / and each will tell you that theirway is best.” The book depicts a wide but manageable variety of species—the toucan, ostrich, bald eagle, burrowing owl, tern, tailorbird, heron, quail, hummingbird, flamingo, robin, penguin—across 14 double-page spreads. The images present nature in all its intricacy, and Wasko places text in appealing blank spaces (usually patches of sky). The abcb rhyming scheme can be a bit awkward sometimes: “We are the quail / and we’re on the run, / because getting eaten by / a fox wouldn’t be very fun.” This quibble aside, the gloriously vibrant birds will enchant young readers. Wasko’s digital illustrations prove truly delightful, mixing color and texture to eye-catching effect while setting the scene with evocative backdrop silhouettes. (The ostriches and their Serengeti habitat are an especially striking example.)

A wondrous look at avian architecture with resplendent illustrations.