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The Complete Language of
The Complete Language of Birds: A Definitive and Illustrated History
Expand your bird knowledge with this gorgeous encyclopedia of nearly 400 bird species around the world, unique for its inclusion of both their physical and mythological characteristics.
If you’re a nature lover who thrives on bird videos and photography, go beyond the scope of standard field guides with this comprehensive reference. Each entry of The Complete Language of Birds provides not only the bird’s name and physical qualities, but also its history, symbolic meanings, and hidden properties from mythology, legends, and folklore. Dive into an unusual dimension of historical and arcane knowledge with the study of birds.
If you’re a nature lover who thrives on bird videos and photography, go beyond the scope of standard field guides with this comprehensive reference. Each entry of The Complete Language of Birds provides not only the bird’s name and physical qualities, but also its history, symbolic meanings, and hidden properties from mythology, legends, and folklore. Dive into an unusual dimension of historical and arcane knowledge with the study of birds.
- GenresNonfictionAnimalsHistory
1119 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 3, 2024
9 people are currently reading
3682 people want to read
About the author
Randi Minetor
96 books65 followersCrisscrossing America since 1992 in a quest to see all 50 states (done!), 431 national parks (76 to go), and more than 700 species of birds (623 so far), Randi and Nic Minetor bring their expertise and their love of the wilderness, American history, and birding to readers who share their many passions. A working writer for more than 40 years, Randi is now the author of more than 80 books in print under her own name, and a number of ghostwritten books on a wide variety of topics.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
December 20, 2024
This is a beautiful book!
July 28, 2024
A glorious book with spectacular illustrations detailing everything you'd want to know about birds, with info on nearly 400 species including history, folklore, and mythology. A wonderful gift for the bird lovers in your life, including me!
November 17, 2024
I was sent an ARC by NetGalley.
This is an engaging and visually appealing guide that explores the deep cultural, mythological, and symbolic connections humans have with birds. This book presents an impressive range of nearly 400 bird species, not only offering insights into their physical traits but also delving into the rich tapestry of legends, folklore, and symbolic meanings attached to each species across various cultures. The illustrations are vivid and beautiful, making the book both an informative resource and an aesthetically pleasing object for display.
One of the book's standout qualities is how it combines the biological with the mystical, allowing readers to explore both scientific facts about birds and the more arcane knowledge found in mythological traditions. This intersection between nature and symbolism will appeal to both bird enthusiasts and those with an interest in folklore, history, and even astrology, as birds are often used to convey spiritual meanings and omens.
However, the book's scope may feel overwhelming for some readers. Those seeking a straightforward field guide to birds might be frustrated by the inclusion of mythological and symbolic elements, as it strays from the typical scientific presentation found in traditional ornithology texts. While it is a beautiful collection of trivia and lore, its narrative can occasionally seem disjointed, as the author weaves through different cultures and histories without always providing deep analysis or clear connections between the bird species and their symbolism.
Additionally, while the illustrations and the concept of combining mythological stories with bird facts are engaging, the depth of the explanations might leave some wanting more detailed scientific information, particularly in comparison to more specialised ornithology books.
Overall, The Complete Language of Birds excels in its unique approach to birds, combining nature with mysticism. It would be most appreciated by readers interested in the symbolic and mythical roles birds have played across cultures, but those looking for a purely factual or scientific guide may find it lacking in the precision and depth expected from traditional birdwatching guides.
This is an engaging and visually appealing guide that explores the deep cultural, mythological, and symbolic connections humans have with birds. This book presents an impressive range of nearly 400 bird species, not only offering insights into their physical traits but also delving into the rich tapestry of legends, folklore, and symbolic meanings attached to each species across various cultures. The illustrations are vivid and beautiful, making the book both an informative resource and an aesthetically pleasing object for display.
One of the book's standout qualities is how it combines the biological with the mystical, allowing readers to explore both scientific facts about birds and the more arcane knowledge found in mythological traditions. This intersection between nature and symbolism will appeal to both bird enthusiasts and those with an interest in folklore, history, and even astrology, as birds are often used to convey spiritual meanings and omens.
However, the book's scope may feel overwhelming for some readers. Those seeking a straightforward field guide to birds might be frustrated by the inclusion of mythological and symbolic elements, as it strays from the typical scientific presentation found in traditional ornithology texts. While it is a beautiful collection of trivia and lore, its narrative can occasionally seem disjointed, as the author weaves through different cultures and histories without always providing deep analysis or clear connections between the bird species and their symbolism.
Additionally, while the illustrations and the concept of combining mythological stories with bird facts are engaging, the depth of the explanations might leave some wanting more detailed scientific information, particularly in comparison to more specialised ornithology books.
Overall, The Complete Language of Birds excels in its unique approach to birds, combining nature with mysticism. It would be most appreciated by readers interested in the symbolic and mythical roles birds have played across cultures, but those looking for a purely factual or scientific guide may find it lacking in the precision and depth expected from traditional birdwatching guides.
August 25, 2024
Book Review: The Complete Language of Birds by Randi Minetor
Rating: 5 Stars
As a bird lover, I was absolutely thrilled to dive into The Complete Language of Birds: A Definitive and Illustrated History by Randi Minetor. This book is nothing short of a treasure trove for anyone who has ever marveled at the beauty and complexity of our feathered friends.
From the moment I opened its pages, I was captivated by the stunning illustrations that accompany over 400 bird species from around the globe. Each entry is incredibly detailed, showcasing not just the physical characteristics of the birds but also their rich histories and the fascinating folklore that surrounds them. I’ve always been fascinated by the stories that different cultures tell about birds, and this book expands on that in a way I’ve never seen before.
What sets The Complete Language of Birds apart from traditional field guides is its unique approach. It goes beyond just identifying species; it delves into their symbolic meanings and mythological significance as well. This dual focus allows readers to appreciate birds not just as part of nature but as vital elements in the tapestry of human culture and history. It’s an unusual blend of ornithology and storytelling that makes this book a true gem.
I can’t emphasize enough how beautifully illustrated this book is. Each page is like a work of art, making it an absolute joy to flip through while sipping a cup of tea or lounging in a sunny spot in the garden. Whether you’re an avid bird watcher or simply someone who enjoys reading about nature, this book provides an abundance of information and inspiration.
I wholeheartedly recommend The Complete Language of Birds as a wonderful gift for any bird lover in your life or even for yourself if you’re looking to expand your knowledge in a captivating way. It truly is an amazingly detailed resource that will keep you engaged for hours on end, filled with everything you could ever want to know about birds—both in our world and the realms of myth and magic.
⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️
Rating: 5 Stars
As a bird lover, I was absolutely thrilled to dive into The Complete Language of Birds: A Definitive and Illustrated History by Randi Minetor. This book is nothing short of a treasure trove for anyone who has ever marveled at the beauty and complexity of our feathered friends.
From the moment I opened its pages, I was captivated by the stunning illustrations that accompany over 400 bird species from around the globe. Each entry is incredibly detailed, showcasing not just the physical characteristics of the birds but also their rich histories and the fascinating folklore that surrounds them. I’ve always been fascinated by the stories that different cultures tell about birds, and this book expands on that in a way I’ve never seen before.
What sets The Complete Language of Birds apart from traditional field guides is its unique approach. It goes beyond just identifying species; it delves into their symbolic meanings and mythological significance as well. This dual focus allows readers to appreciate birds not just as part of nature but as vital elements in the tapestry of human culture and history. It’s an unusual blend of ornithology and storytelling that makes this book a true gem.
I can’t emphasize enough how beautifully illustrated this book is. Each page is like a work of art, making it an absolute joy to flip through while sipping a cup of tea or lounging in a sunny spot in the garden. Whether you’re an avid bird watcher or simply someone who enjoys reading about nature, this book provides an abundance of information and inspiration.
I wholeheartedly recommend The Complete Language of Birds as a wonderful gift for any bird lover in your life or even for yourself if you’re looking to expand your knowledge in a captivating way. It truly is an amazingly detailed resource that will keep you engaged for hours on end, filled with everything you could ever want to know about birds—both in our world and the realms of myth and magic.
⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️
August 16, 2024
The Complete Language of Birds: A Definitive and Illustrated History (Complete Illustrated Encyclopedia, by Randi Minetors is a lovely book for browsing, reference, and gaining knowledge about over 400 bird species, worldwide. I consider first level bird guides those that help identify the bird, its migratory patterns, breeding habits, and preferred diet. This books assumes you have access to one of these books and, instead, includes the scientific and common names, conservation status, the collective name (i.e. what a flock of these birds is called), as well as a beautiful, full colored drawing of each bird.
The next part of the profile looks at how each bird has been incorporated into the culture of the area in which it lives. This includes symbolic meanings, possible powers, and folklore/facts. These subjects give a deeper understanding of the birds in our lives, and draw upon how imagination plays a part in our appreciation of our avian friends. If you scan these parts, you will accumulate various facts and fancies that will delight fellow bird aficionados. If you delve deeply, you will gain a greater understanding of how impactful our bird friends can be.
Following are one example of each these profile points that I found delightful:
Collective name of Black Collared lovebirds: Cleaving of lovebirds; Orgy of lovebirds
Symbolic Meanings of Eastern Whip-Poor-Will: Impending Death
Possible Powers of the Red Tailed Hawk: Courage, Majesty, Protection
Folklore and Facts of the Canada Goose: Branta Caneadensis shares the unique characteristics of the Celtic legend of the Selkie, a seal who sheds her skin to become a woman.
I heartily recommend this book, and thank Wellfleet Press, an imprint of Quarto Group (www.quarto.com), for providing it for review consideration via NetGalley (@NetGalley). All opinions are my own.
The next part of the profile looks at how each bird has been incorporated into the culture of the area in which it lives. This includes symbolic meanings, possible powers, and folklore/facts. These subjects give a deeper understanding of the birds in our lives, and draw upon how imagination plays a part in our appreciation of our avian friends. If you scan these parts, you will accumulate various facts and fancies that will delight fellow bird aficionados. If you delve deeply, you will gain a greater understanding of how impactful our bird friends can be.
Following are one example of each these profile points that I found delightful:
Collective name of Black Collared lovebirds: Cleaving of lovebirds; Orgy of lovebirds
Symbolic Meanings of Eastern Whip-Poor-Will: Impending Death
Possible Powers of the Red Tailed Hawk: Courage, Majesty, Protection
Folklore and Facts of the Canada Goose: Branta Caneadensis shares the unique characteristics of the Celtic legend of the Selkie, a seal who sheds her skin to become a woman.
I heartily recommend this book, and thank Wellfleet Press, an imprint of Quarto Group (www.quarto.com), for providing it for review consideration via NetGalley (@NetGalley). All opinions are my own.
July 27, 2024
Whenever you hear a chirp, your mind always searches for that tiny being in your surroundings and tries to follow that sound for a while. If you can recognize it, you keep on wondering where they are from and how long they will be here. This is the beauty of nature and of this book, 'The Complete Language of Birds' by Randi Minetor—an encyclopedia for anyone intrigued by birds.
Apart from being definitive and illustrated, what holds the reader beyond flipping the pages is the section ‘Folklore and Facts’. Along with the stories of the birds, the author digs into the perceptions surrounding those stories as well. It is a good book to take on trekking trips or to wildlife expeditions. However, for some birds, neither photographs nor graphical representations are provided, which may make them hard to identify. ‘Symbolic Meaning’ and ‘Possible Powers’ are also sections that surprise the reader and provoke them to think about the birds anew with a fresh perspective. It would be interesting to see what impact the birds mentioned as ‘extinct’ in the recent past had on the environment. Sometimes, the migration of these birds can change the topography of a particular region. Understanding why and how these birds have fallen into this category may help us to understand where humanity is heading.
The author is well-experienced and thoroughly interested in the subject, which echoes throughout the entire book. This kind of literature is not produced without years of research or deep inquiry into the topic. It would be great to read other non-fiction works by the author as well. In addition to the content of the book, the graphics also stand the test of time—they are unique, timeless, and explicit. Special gratitude is owed to the publisher for making such a book accessible to the audience.
I would definitely recommend this book to young people as well as anyone fascinated by birds, hiking, or wildlife. I would love to give five out of five stars to this beautiful encyclopedia by Randi Minetor.
Apart from being definitive and illustrated, what holds the reader beyond flipping the pages is the section ‘Folklore and Facts’. Along with the stories of the birds, the author digs into the perceptions surrounding those stories as well. It is a good book to take on trekking trips or to wildlife expeditions. However, for some birds, neither photographs nor graphical representations are provided, which may make them hard to identify. ‘Symbolic Meaning’ and ‘Possible Powers’ are also sections that surprise the reader and provoke them to think about the birds anew with a fresh perspective. It would be interesting to see what impact the birds mentioned as ‘extinct’ in the recent past had on the environment. Sometimes, the migration of these birds can change the topography of a particular region. Understanding why and how these birds have fallen into this category may help us to understand where humanity is heading.
The author is well-experienced and thoroughly interested in the subject, which echoes throughout the entire book. This kind of literature is not produced without years of research or deep inquiry into the topic. It would be great to read other non-fiction works by the author as well. In addition to the content of the book, the graphics also stand the test of time—they are unique, timeless, and explicit. Special gratitude is owed to the publisher for making such a book accessible to the audience.
I would definitely recommend this book to young people as well as anyone fascinated by birds, hiking, or wildlife. I would love to give five out of five stars to this beautiful encyclopedia by Randi Minetor.
August 29, 2024
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.
Randi Minetor’s The Complete Language of Birds is a comprehensive exploration of avian wonders, blending scientific facts with rich mythological and cultural narratives.
This beautifully illustrated encyclopedia is a treasure trove for bird enthusiasts and anyone fascinated by the natural world. Minetor’s work covers nearly 400 bird species!
This book is visually stunning, with vibrant illustrations that bring each bird to life. The elegant design and layout enhance the readability and aesthetic appeal, making it a perfect coffee table book as well as a valuable reference.
Minetor delves into the symbolic properties and hidden powers attributed to birds throughout history. This thematic depth adds a layer of intrigue and enriches the reader’s understanding of the avian world.
Minetor’s writing is engaging and informative, striking a balance between scientific accuracy and storytelling. Her passion for ornithology and cultural history shines through, making the book educational and enjoyable.
The lively descriptions and interesting anecdotes transform what could be a dry reference guide into a compelling narrative.
The Complete Language of Birds is a celebration of the beauty and mystery of birds. Randi Minetor has created a work that is informative and enchanting, making it a must-have for bird lovers and anyone interested in the intersection of nature and culture.
This book is a testament to the enduring allure of birds and their profound impact on human imagination and history.
Randi Minetor’s The Complete Language of Birds is a comprehensive exploration of avian wonders, blending scientific facts with rich mythological and cultural narratives.
This beautifully illustrated encyclopedia is a treasure trove for bird enthusiasts and anyone fascinated by the natural world. Minetor’s work covers nearly 400 bird species!
This book is visually stunning, with vibrant illustrations that bring each bird to life. The elegant design and layout enhance the readability and aesthetic appeal, making it a perfect coffee table book as well as a valuable reference.
Minetor delves into the symbolic properties and hidden powers attributed to birds throughout history. This thematic depth adds a layer of intrigue and enriches the reader’s understanding of the avian world.
Minetor’s writing is engaging and informative, striking a balance between scientific accuracy and storytelling. Her passion for ornithology and cultural history shines through, making the book educational and enjoyable.
The lively descriptions and interesting anecdotes transform what could be a dry reference guide into a compelling narrative.
The Complete Language of Birds is a celebration of the beauty and mystery of birds. Randi Minetor has created a work that is informative and enchanting, making it a must-have for bird lovers and anyone interested in the intersection of nature and culture.
This book is a testament to the enduring allure of birds and their profound impact on human imagination and history.
July 30, 2024
James' rating: 5 out of 5 fun AND informative stars! ✨
The mention of birds and it's folklore pulled me to this book and I loved it! The Aves kingdom was quite fascinating to me. Their ability to fly was a source of envy.
The illustrations are very well done! Beautiful to see as well as helpful in identification. I loved the drawings especially. So cool!
The folklore was quite fascinating. I love the Egyptian mythology and to see stories and references to birds which were a major part of its mythology was a treat to read. There was also helpful information on where they could be found (which I really loved!) and even information about endangered species. I really appreciated the mentions of steps taken to help the vulnerable and endangered species like breeding programs and other reserves.
There's also quite the extensive indexing for easy access. Separate indexing for their IUCN classifications, common names (numbered) as well as their common meanings.
A very fun, informative read I would recommend to bird lovers!
Thanks to Randi Minetor and Wellfleet Press for a fascinating read!
Happy Reading!
The mention of birds and it's folklore pulled me to this book and I loved it! The Aves kingdom was quite fascinating to me. Their ability to fly was a source of envy.
The illustrations are very well done! Beautiful to see as well as helpful in identification. I loved the drawings especially. So cool!
The folklore was quite fascinating. I love the Egyptian mythology and to see stories and references to birds which were a major part of its mythology was a treat to read. There was also helpful information on where they could be found (which I really loved!) and even information about endangered species. I really appreciated the mentions of steps taken to help the vulnerable and endangered species like breeding programs and other reserves.
There's also quite the extensive indexing for easy access. Separate indexing for their IUCN classifications, common names (numbered) as well as their common meanings.
A very fun, informative read I would recommend to bird lovers!
Thanks to Randi Minetor and Wellfleet Press for a fascinating read!
Happy Reading!
July 26, 2024
Fascinating, comprehensive, and entertaining - Randi Minetor's "The Complete Language of Birds" is an engaging encyclopedia of birds, providing information not only on the birds themselves, but information about cultural beliefs and traditions associated with them. Want to know the spiritual meaning of seeing a cardinal? It's in here. Is there a bird's nest that's edible? That's in here, too. You could easily get lost in this book, as each entry is so rich with information and intriguing details. You don't have to be a birdwatcher to be able to appreciate this amazing book, but it may inspire you to become one if you aren't already. This is a lovely book, richly illustrated and full of very well-organized information.
August 7, 2024
The Complete Language of Birds: A Definitive and Illustrated History by Randi Minetor is a beautifully crafted stunning coffee table book. As a bird lover, I was thrilled to learn more, especially by reading the folklore section. This adds a rich cultural layer to the scientific insights. The detailed illustrations and visually appealing layout make it a joy to peruse, while the rich narrative offers valuable insights into bird behavior.
I can't wait to see this book in print, as it would be the perfect gift to any to any bird lover's collection.
Thank you to the publisher Quarto Publishing Group – Wellfleet Press for providing an advance reader copy via Net Galley
I can't wait to see this book in print, as it would be the perfect gift to any to any bird lover's collection.
Thank you to the publisher Quarto Publishing Group – Wellfleet Press for providing an advance reader copy via Net Galley
August 11, 2024
Randi Minetor's The Complete Language of Birds, is a well-researched book details the human history and knowledge of 400 of the 10,000 bird species we share our earth with. It is filled with beautiful illustrations sourced from historical artists. You will learn about the history, symbolism, and folklore surrounding some of the species you see everyday. The facts and information will have you turning to the book time after time to learn something new.
I would recommend this book to anyone who is interested in human history as it pertains to our relationship with birds. Thank you to Wellfleet Press, Netgalley, and Randi Minetor for the ARC and collaborating on a podcast episode for the Bird Nerd Book Club.
I would recommend this book to anyone who is interested in human history as it pertains to our relationship with birds. Thank you to Wellfleet Press, Netgalley, and Randi Minetor for the ARC and collaborating on a podcast episode for the Bird Nerd Book Club.
November 10, 2024
This book is phenomenal for those of us to happened into millennial mid thirty’s crisis birding… which based on how often my Costco has to restock their bird seed, is a lot of us.
While I didn’t know the Latin names of my birds, the index in the back of the book was extremely easy to use, and I like that in 10 years the book won’t be outdated. The facts are listed with folklore- which immediately appealed to my love of backstories and romanticism. And the artwork- holy moly. It’s all so stunning.
I have the kindle edition but I will absolutely be saving for a hardcover version to put on my shelf and share with friends.
While I didn’t know the Latin names of my birds, the index in the back of the book was extremely easy to use, and I like that in 10 years the book won’t be outdated. The facts are listed with folklore- which immediately appealed to my love of backstories and romanticism. And the artwork- holy moly. It’s all so stunning.
I have the kindle edition but I will absolutely be saving for a hardcover version to put on my shelf and share with friends.
January 4, 2025
This book was absolutely stunning -- a work of art! Although visually striking with incredible painted illustrations, it was also rich in information. You have technical and scientific information on each bird sorted alphabetically, but also lore, fun facts... all around a really fun time even for people not obsessed or well versed in birds. I had to buy it for my son for his birthday after I read it on NetGalley and being a bird lover he's been living with it. Highly recommend even simply as a beautiful and very interesting coffee table book.
July 20, 2025
It took me quite a while to get through this tome, absorbed in bits and pieces. There was obviously a lot of research done on the mythology side for these hundreds of birds. One facet that could have enhanced the understanding and reading experience would be to have a drawing included for all of the birds, instead of having to resort back and forth to field guides, but that would certainly have added to the page count. Overall a very interesting book for bird lovers!
July 26, 2024
Excellent encyclopedia of birds. Includes great information on the bird and also interesting folklore information from around the world. I enjoyed it. Thank you to #netgalley and the publisher for an ARC.
September 17, 2024
I got this as a birthday gift from my amazing husband. It took me a bit longer to get through because of all the scientific names, but what I really appreciated was the absence of photos. Instead, it featured beautiful, custom hand-drawn images of birds.
March 23, 2025
Lots of folklore & details of some worldwide bird species; encyclopedic
August 26, 2024
“The Complete Language of Birds” by Randi Minetor is an absolute must-read for any nature enthusiast or bird lover! This book is a true masterpiece, with stunning artwork on each page, opening up an entirely new world of understanding and appreciation for the incredible avian species that share our planet.
Minetor's writing is both accessible and captivating, guiding readers on a journey through the diverse and fascinating ways that birds communicate. From the melodic songs that fill the air to the subtle body language and intricate social cues, every aspect of avian language is explored in vivid detail. The author's obvious passion and deep knowledge of the subject matter shines through on every page, igniting a sense of wonder and curiosity within the reader.
What sets this book apart is the perfect balance of scientific rigor and enchanting storytelling. Minetor seamlessly weaves together the latest research and insights with lyrical descriptions that bring the avian world to life. Readers will find themselves utterly transported, developing a profound connection to the feathered creatures all around us.
Simply put, “The Complete Language of Birds” is a true gem that deserves a spot on the bookshelf of anyone who appreciates the beauty and complexity of the natural world. This book is an absolute must-read!
Thank you to #NetGalley, #randiminetor, and #wellfleetpress for the digital ARC in exchange for my honest review. I look forward to purchasing a hard copy of this book for my collection!
Minetor's writing is both accessible and captivating, guiding readers on a journey through the diverse and fascinating ways that birds communicate. From the melodic songs that fill the air to the subtle body language and intricate social cues, every aspect of avian language is explored in vivid detail. The author's obvious passion and deep knowledge of the subject matter shines through on every page, igniting a sense of wonder and curiosity within the reader.
What sets this book apart is the perfect balance of scientific rigor and enchanting storytelling. Minetor seamlessly weaves together the latest research and insights with lyrical descriptions that bring the avian world to life. Readers will find themselves utterly transported, developing a profound connection to the feathered creatures all around us.
Simply put, “The Complete Language of Birds” is a true gem that deserves a spot on the bookshelf of anyone who appreciates the beauty and complexity of the natural world. This book is an absolute must-read!
Thank you to #NetGalley, #randiminetor, and #wellfleetpress for the digital ARC in exchange for my honest review. I look forward to purchasing a hard copy of this book for my collection!
August 10, 2025
Rating: 5* of five
The Publisher Says: The Complete Language of Birds offers stunningly illustrated profiles of nearly 400 bird species, covering both their physical and mystical qualities.
Expand your bird knowledge with this gorgeous encyclopedia of nearly 400 bird species around the world, unique for its inclusion of both their physical and mythological characteristics.
If you’re a nature lover who thrives on bird videos and photography, go beyond the scope of standard field guides with this comprehensive reference. Each entry of The Complete Language of Birds provides not only the bird’s name and physical qualities, but also its history, symbolic meanings, and hidden properties from mythology, legends, and folklore.
Within the pages of this colorful volume, you’ll find:
Beautiful illustrations and descriptions of common and unusual birds
Notes on the surprising properties and powers of birds
Discussions of the symbolism and mythological significance of each bird species
Dive into an unusual dimension of historical and arcane knowledge with the study of birds.
A collection of fun and interesting facts about birds gathered from science and culture, the stunning illustrations and lively descriptions make this an engaging guide you’ll return to again and again.
Elegantly designed and beautifully illustrated, the Complete Illustrated Encyclopedia series offers comprehensive, display-worthy references on a range of intriguing topics, including dream interpretation, techniques for harnessing the power of dreams, flower meanings, and the stories behind signs and symbols.
I RECEIVED A DRC FROM THE PUBLISHER VIA EDELWEISS+. THANK YOU.
My Review: Wow. Just...wow.
Even the explanatory notes we begin with are stunning as well as legible and useful.
The "A"s are placed in an impossible composition, but one that very clearly exemplifies the quality of art and design we'll be seeing throughout the book.
The informative "A"s are less elaborate, as one would expect, but no less beautifully illustrated, and clearly legible with the descriptive text being very logically placed and broken into discrete entries.
More opening spreads to drool over. I was especially delighted by the "R"s...that toucan!
My favorite bird: the hoopoe! I hope one day to see one in the plumage. (Don't like to say "flesh" about les birbs, it tends to be misinterpreted by those as do not know me.)
This section is just for fun, of course, and fun it certainly delivered to me. I'm fascinated by the fantasies humans have stitched together out of reality. Some details:
Honest to Gussie! The "Chickharney" had to be dreamt up by someone who ate a bushel of ergot-tainted rye. I don't *think* the synthesis of LSD had been discovered back then....
I left this read feeling genuinely delighted and refreshed. I'm so happy that it's available for a very reasonable price for all y'all's gifting needs this Yuletide...and beyond of course, but the world's economy might necessitate some price hikes next year, so do it now and get the gorgeous for the right price.
Your birding-lover giftee will very likely appreciate and enjoy it. Your coffee table will positively revel in it as an ornament. It's a lovely object with good information in it.
The Publisher Says: The Complete Language of Birds offers stunningly illustrated profiles of nearly 400 bird species, covering both their physical and mystical qualities.
Expand your bird knowledge with this gorgeous encyclopedia of nearly 400 bird species around the world, unique for its inclusion of both their physical and mythological characteristics.
If you’re a nature lover who thrives on bird videos and photography, go beyond the scope of standard field guides with this comprehensive reference. Each entry of The Complete Language of Birds provides not only the bird’s name and physical qualities, but also its history, symbolic meanings, and hidden properties from mythology, legends, and folklore.
Within the pages of this colorful volume, you’ll find:
Beautiful illustrations and descriptions of common and unusual birds
Notes on the surprising properties and powers of birds
Discussions of the symbolism and mythological significance of each bird species
Dive into an unusual dimension of historical and arcane knowledge with the study of birds.
A collection of fun and interesting facts about birds gathered from science and culture, the stunning illustrations and lively descriptions make this an engaging guide you’ll return to again and again.
Elegantly designed and beautifully illustrated, the Complete Illustrated Encyclopedia series offers comprehensive, display-worthy references on a range of intriguing topics, including dream interpretation, techniques for harnessing the power of dreams, flower meanings, and the stories behind signs and symbols.
I RECEIVED A DRC FROM THE PUBLISHER VIA EDELWEISS+. THANK YOU.
My Review: Wow. Just...wow.
Even the explanatory notes we begin with are stunning as well as legible and useful.
The "A"s are placed in an impossible composition, but one that very clearly exemplifies the quality of art and design we'll be seeing throughout the book.
The informative "A"s are less elaborate, as one would expect, but no less beautifully illustrated, and clearly legible with the descriptive text being very logically placed and broken into discrete entries.
More opening spreads to drool over. I was especially delighted by the "R"s...that toucan!
My favorite bird: the hoopoe! I hope one day to see one in the plumage. (Don't like to say "flesh" about les birbs, it tends to be misinterpreted by those as do not know me.)
This section is just for fun, of course, and fun it certainly delivered to me. I'm fascinated by the fantasies humans have stitched together out of reality. Some details:
Honest to Gussie! The "Chickharney" had to be dreamt up by someone who ate a bushel of ergot-tainted rye. I don't *think* the synthesis of LSD had been discovered back then....
I left this read feeling genuinely delighted and refreshed. I'm so happy that it's available for a very reasonable price for all y'all's gifting needs this Yuletide...and beyond of course, but the world's economy might necessitate some price hikes next year, so do it now and get the gorgeous for the right price.
Your birding-lover giftee will very likely appreciate and enjoy it. Your coffee table will positively revel in it as an ornament. It's a lovely object with good information in it.
September 4, 2024
This unique and visually beautiful encyclopedia goes beyond traditional bird guides. Featuring nearly 400 species along with illustrations, this comprehensive resource explores both the physical characteristics and fascinating mythology associated with birds. It’s fascinating and fun to read.
Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
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