The Bird Book: The Stories, Science, and History of Birds

by D.K. Publishing

Delve into the fascinating world of birds through astonishing photography and clear explanations in this absorbing global guideBirds are dinosaurs, with a history going back millions of years. Our fascination with them runs deep in history and our close association is reflected in creation stories, myths, legends, songs, and children's stories.This book explores both the natural history of birds and that deep cultural connection. From their evolution and anatomy to their behavior and diversity, spanning tiny dunnocks hiding in bushes to ostriches strong enough to knock out a lion. Articles cover a group, such as hawks, finches, swans, or birds of paradise, moving the focus away from a predictable species-by-species account and allowing for truly global coverage. Discover the bold nature of European Robins and why they are associated with Christmas; the mythical Alkonost, with the body of a bird of paradise but the head of a woman; and learn about eagles, from their hunting prowess to the myriad stories and symbolism associated with them. Packed with information, and beautiful photography and illustrations, The Bird Book is a must-have for nature enthusiasts.

Genres: Birds, Nonfiction, Nature, Animals, Science, Reference

320 pages, Hardcover

Published September 17, 2024

About the author

Dorling Kindersley (DK) is a British multinational publishing company specializing in illustrated reference books for adults and children in 62 languages. It is part of Penguin Random House, a consumer publishing company jointly owned by Bertelsmann SE & Co. KGaA and Pearson PLC. Bertelsmann owns 53% of the company and Pearson owns 47%.

Established in 1974, DK publishes a range of titles in genres including travel (including Eyewitness Travel Guides), arts and crafts, business, history, cooking, gaming, gardening, health and fitness, natural history, parenting, science and reference. They also publish books for children, toddlers and babies, covering such topics as history, the human body, animals and activities, as well as licensed properties such as LEGO, Disney and DeLiSo, licensor of the toy Sophie la Girafe. DK has offices in New York, London, Munich, New Delhi, Toronto and Melbourne.

Source: Wikipedia.

Reviews

[Alyssa Caples · Rating 5 out of 5]

i love birds! this book makes me want to memorize all these birds and then go outside and try to see them!!!

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gorgeous!and informative. :)

[Jonathan · Rating 5 out of 5]

A museum in your hands; this book has a phenomenal taxonomic approach to showcasing birds of the world.

The photographs are beautiful and the information is fairly up to date, with discoveries and changes from as recently as early 2020s are included.

You'll see descriptors of behaviors and pictures of special moments, combined with breathtaking plumage.

The placement of information varies by page. It would've been a faster read if similar information lived in a dedicated spot > like family, order, and range information. Still, variety is the spice of life!

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

It I could change one thing about this book, it would be to add more photos rather than include so many drawings.