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Fastest Things on Wings: Rescuing Hummingbirds in Hollywood
A heartwarming account of the trials and triumphs a hummingbird rehabber encounters while caring for her tiny, fragile patients
Before he collided with a limousine, Gabriel, an Anna’s hummingbird with a head and throat cloaked in iridescent magenta feathers, could spiral 130 feet in the air, dive 60 miles per hour in a courtship display, hover, and fly backward. When he arrived in rehab caked in road grime, he was so badly injured that he could barely perch. But Terry Masear, one of the busiest hummingbird rehabbers in the country, was determined to save this damaged bird, who seemed oddly familiar. During the four months that Terry worked with Gabriel, she took in 160 hummingbirds, from a miniature nestling rescued by a bulldog and a fledgling trapped inside a skydiving wind tunnel at Universal CityWalk, to Pepper, a female Anna’s injured on a film set. In their time together, Pepper and Gabriel form a special bond and, together, with Terry’s help, learn to fly again. Woven around Gabriel’s and Pepper’s stories are those of other colorful birds in this personal narrative filled with the science and magic surrounding these fascinating creatures.
Before he collided with a limousine, Gabriel, an Anna’s hummingbird with a head and throat cloaked in iridescent magenta feathers, could spiral 130 feet in the air, dive 60 miles per hour in a courtship display, hover, and fly backward. When he arrived in rehab caked in road grime, he was so badly injured that he could barely perch. But Terry Masear, one of the busiest hummingbird rehabbers in the country, was determined to save this damaged bird, who seemed oddly familiar. During the four months that Terry worked with Gabriel, she took in 160 hummingbirds, from a miniature nestling rescued by a bulldog and a fledgling trapped inside a skydiving wind tunnel at Universal CityWalk, to Pepper, a female Anna’s injured on a film set. In their time together, Pepper and Gabriel form a special bond and, together, with Terry’s help, learn to fly again. Woven around Gabriel’s and Pepper’s stories are those of other colorful birds in this personal narrative filled with the science and magic surrounding these fascinating creatures.
306 pages, Hardcover
First published June 16, 2015
216 people are currently reading
1334 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 167 reviews
May 29, 2015
I was captivated by Terry Masear's recollections of her life as a hummingbird rehabilitator. Last spring we needed a wild life rehabber and were lucky enough to find one who specializes in white tailed deer only 30 minutes from our home. I was on the phone talking with rehabbers from all over the north east before someone was able to connect me with the woman near enough to help us, it was nerve-wracking.
Unfortunately our ordeal didn't have a happy ending and as an animal lover I was heartbroken and blamed myself because I didn't see this poor orphaned fawn under my house. I didn't have the heart to tell my daughter that poor little, Buttercup, didn't make it, until many months later. So, reading the stories about how neurotic and invested people immediately become over the rescue and survival of these tiny hummingbirds brought that experience back to me.
Masear's stories illustrate how tiny little hummingbirds can turn even the scariest Goths and biggest Mob hit men into soft tender-hearted heroes. I loved hearing how people from many different walks of life would react to rescuing and transporting these beautiful little birds and how they spoke to every person in their own way. Terry says they told her very clearly "We want your life." And she has given it to them.
I can't imagine being able to keep up with the needs of so many tiny creatures. Over the summer she recounts in this book Masear takes in one hundred and sixty hummingbirds all with various different issues some with serious injuries but all of them needing to be fed during the day every 30 minutes! Just imagine it...clearly a calling that should only be answered by the very physically fit.
I loved this book, it had me gasping and laughing out loud (and of course there were a few tears as well). A compelling and well written narrative that will engage all animal lovers. I'm so glad I read this, it's another book that I wouldn't have found without the Amazon Vine program. Thank you to Amazon Vine and the publishers Houghton Mifflin Harcourt for the advance reader's copy given in exchange for an honest review.
Unfortunately our ordeal didn't have a happy ending and as an animal lover I was heartbroken and blamed myself because I didn't see this poor orphaned fawn under my house. I didn't have the heart to tell my daughter that poor little, Buttercup, didn't make it, until many months later. So, reading the stories about how neurotic and invested people immediately become over the rescue and survival of these tiny hummingbirds brought that experience back to me.
Masear's stories illustrate how tiny little hummingbirds can turn even the scariest Goths and biggest Mob hit men into soft tender-hearted heroes. I loved hearing how people from many different walks of life would react to rescuing and transporting these beautiful little birds and how they spoke to every person in their own way. Terry says they told her very clearly "We want your life." And she has given it to them.
I can't imagine being able to keep up with the needs of so many tiny creatures. Over the summer she recounts in this book Masear takes in one hundred and sixty hummingbirds all with various different issues some with serious injuries but all of them needing to be fed during the day every 30 minutes! Just imagine it...clearly a calling that should only be answered by the very physically fit.
I loved this book, it had me gasping and laughing out loud (and of course there were a few tears as well). A compelling and well written narrative that will engage all animal lovers. I'm so glad I read this, it's another book that I wouldn't have found without the Amazon Vine program. Thank you to Amazon Vine and the publishers Houghton Mifflin Harcourt for the advance reader's copy given in exchange for an honest review.
September 1, 2024
Several years ago, on a lovely summer day,my husband and I were in western Pennsylvania viewing glorious gardens. Suddenly, I alerted our group by calling out that I could see a hummingbird. Instead of expected enthusiasm, I received quizzical looks. They did not understand that where I lived, in Massachusetts, such sightings were a rarity and I had never seen these delightful creatures! I did remedy this in my own garden later, by planting floral attractions for these birds and was able to see several close up- repeatedly.
Terry Masear has penned a book, which is thoroughly intriguing and reads like a suspense novel! Her enthusiasm and conscientious attentions to these birds is contagious. At the same time, I learned many new facts about the hummingbird and how very many are rescued around this country. It was amazing to me to discover that some of these tiny beings actually migrate many thousands of miles and have homing abilities. Much of this seemed anecdotal, until the weight of scientific evidence appeared. Many avian afficionados had banded them and revealed astonishing migratory flights.
I could continue on with all that Masear has informed and delighted me, but I think this makes better reading as penned from her hand. She has presented the tales of her rescued birds with wisdom and endearingly, often stressing their alert responsiveness. There is also a very welcome section of photographs, with instructions to view more in her web site.
www.losangeleshummingbirdrescue.org/#!
The author suggested viewing this. What a treat!
Terry Masear has penned a book, which is thoroughly intriguing and reads like a suspense novel! Her enthusiasm and conscientious attentions to these birds is contagious. At the same time, I learned many new facts about the hummingbird and how very many are rescued around this country. It was amazing to me to discover that some of these tiny beings actually migrate many thousands of miles and have homing abilities. Much of this seemed anecdotal, until the weight of scientific evidence appeared. Many avian afficionados had banded them and revealed astonishing migratory flights.
I could continue on with all that Masear has informed and delighted me, but I think this makes better reading as penned from her hand. She has presented the tales of her rescued birds with wisdom and endearingly, often stressing their alert responsiveness. There is also a very welcome section of photographs, with instructions to view more in her web site.
www.losangeleshummingbirdrescue.org/#!
The author suggested viewing this. What a treat!
May 5, 2016
I am both obsessed with and humbled by birds. They are amazingly intelligent (“bird brain” connotation is a myth), captivating, and not to mention: adorable. Hummingbirds capture the silver medal in my affections and I luckily live in Los Angeles where the population of these fairy tale-esque creatures is notably high. In fact, they populate the bush underneath my bedroom window making me giddy with joy. It goes without saying, then, that I would be drawn to a memoir about a hummingbird rehabilitator right here in LA. Terry Masear shares her story in, “Fastest Things on Wings: Rescuing Hummingbirds in Hollywood”.
Masear is not a wildlife expert or a biologist by profession. In fact, she is a UCLA professor teaching English as a second language. Yet, on one fateful day, an injured hummingbird entered her life and she met Jean, the LA hummingbird resident rescuer. Eventually, Masear volunteered under Jean and the rest is history as Masear spends almost every waking moment caring for hummingbirds in her own home (this requires a special license and government permission. It is against the law to keep hummingbirds in your home!). “Fastest Things on Wings” is a meshing of a memoir, hummingbird biology piece, and a story about a specific bird, Gabriel (and then another hummer, Pepper).
Although a riveting subject especially for hummingbird lovers; “Fastest Things on Wings” is instantly flawed by not providing either a proper topic or author introduction arc. Masear dives into narrating hummingbird encounters/rescue stories without explaining her background, details of this way of life, etc. This results in a dissonance with the reader plus unanswered questions.
Masear also presents a very choppy and disjointed memoir by alternating storytelling between hummingbird rescue and facts alongside the story of Gabriel. She is “all over the place” constantly running off on tangents and it is difficult for the reader to decipher the train of thoughts and stream of timeline. Not to mention, Masear often repeats herself. Although the language and prose is vivid and descriptive (Masear would make an apt fictional writer); it is evident that this sort of writing isn’t her forte and a strong editor who looks beyond grammar would have been useful.
These issues aside, Masear’s passion and study of these incredible birds shines through. Readers not only get a glimpse into the world of hummingbird rehab but also learn a wealth of information receiving an education worth noting. “Fastest Things on Wings” has a lot to give readers, in this sense.
Oftentimes, Masear seems to be speaking directly to LA resident readers making references only we would understand. This runs the risk of somewhat excluding those living elsewhere from feeling camaraderie with the author.
The major issue which never settles throughout “Fastest Things on Wings” is Masear’s propensity to act like an hummingbird herself by darting from topic-to -topic and memory recall to fact-dispensing from one second to the next even within one paragraph. Masear can’t seem to stick to a solid thought. As a result, even though she attempts to always return to the story of Gabriel and Pepper; the emphasis and impact is lost. Perhaps after spending so much time with hummers, she has become like them: fast and always on the move. However, even through this chaos, Masear extends philosophical thoughts/meanderings which strengthen the depth of “Fastest Things on Wings”.
“Fastest Things on Wings” ends adequately with a dose of emotion and wrap up. Sadly, the conclusion lacks a link to Masear’s website, other rehabilitators, etc; which would be quite useful (especially to us, her LA neighbors). "Fastest Things on Wings" does feature a section of color plates featuring hummingbirds although none display Masear in action or with birds.
“Fastest Things on Wings” is choppy and somewhat confusing with its aim plus repetitive. Yet, one gains a strong sense of hummingbirds and learns a plethora of facts. “Fastest Things on Wings” is recommended for hummingbird lovers and especially those living in Los Angeles but not necessarily for those seeking a strong animal/human memoir.
Masear is not a wildlife expert or a biologist by profession. In fact, she is a UCLA professor teaching English as a second language. Yet, on one fateful day, an injured hummingbird entered her life and she met Jean, the LA hummingbird resident rescuer. Eventually, Masear volunteered under Jean and the rest is history as Masear spends almost every waking moment caring for hummingbirds in her own home (this requires a special license and government permission. It is against the law to keep hummingbirds in your home!). “Fastest Things on Wings” is a meshing of a memoir, hummingbird biology piece, and a story about a specific bird, Gabriel (and then another hummer, Pepper).
Although a riveting subject especially for hummingbird lovers; “Fastest Things on Wings” is instantly flawed by not providing either a proper topic or author introduction arc. Masear dives into narrating hummingbird encounters/rescue stories without explaining her background, details of this way of life, etc. This results in a dissonance with the reader plus unanswered questions.
Masear also presents a very choppy and disjointed memoir by alternating storytelling between hummingbird rescue and facts alongside the story of Gabriel. She is “all over the place” constantly running off on tangents and it is difficult for the reader to decipher the train of thoughts and stream of timeline. Not to mention, Masear often repeats herself. Although the language and prose is vivid and descriptive (Masear would make an apt fictional writer); it is evident that this sort of writing isn’t her forte and a strong editor who looks beyond grammar would have been useful.
These issues aside, Masear’s passion and study of these incredible birds shines through. Readers not only get a glimpse into the world of hummingbird rehab but also learn a wealth of information receiving an education worth noting. “Fastest Things on Wings” has a lot to give readers, in this sense.
Oftentimes, Masear seems to be speaking directly to LA resident readers making references only we would understand. This runs the risk of somewhat excluding those living elsewhere from feeling camaraderie with the author.
The major issue which never settles throughout “Fastest Things on Wings” is Masear’s propensity to act like an hummingbird herself by darting from topic-to -topic and memory recall to fact-dispensing from one second to the next even within one paragraph. Masear can’t seem to stick to a solid thought. As a result, even though she attempts to always return to the story of Gabriel and Pepper; the emphasis and impact is lost. Perhaps after spending so much time with hummers, she has become like them: fast and always on the move. However, even through this chaos, Masear extends philosophical thoughts/meanderings which strengthen the depth of “Fastest Things on Wings”.
“Fastest Things on Wings” ends adequately with a dose of emotion and wrap up. Sadly, the conclusion lacks a link to Masear’s website, other rehabilitators, etc; which would be quite useful (especially to us, her LA neighbors). "Fastest Things on Wings" does feature a section of color plates featuring hummingbirds although none display Masear in action or with birds.
“Fastest Things on Wings” is choppy and somewhat confusing with its aim plus repetitive. Yet, one gains a strong sense of hummingbirds and learns a plethora of facts. “Fastest Things on Wings” is recommended for hummingbird lovers and especially those living in Los Angeles but not necessarily for those seeking a strong animal/human memoir.
August 7, 2015
This is a gorgeous, remarkable, outstanding book.
The women and men who rehabilitate and care for wildlife are a unique and interesting tribe. They do the often tedious, thankless, exhausting jobs that we all like to imagine we'd like to do. They're fascinating people. Sadly (for us) very few of them are also gifted writers. Terry Masear is one of the few who excels in both worlds. The result is this jewel of a book offering a glimpse into the world of hummingbird rescue.
Masear is a wonderful writer, and this book is one of the most beautiful, and most enjoyable, I have read this year. Often, when a rehabber writes a book, they focus on the sweeping challenges they face, dwell on the logistics of care or diagnoses, or drown you in an unorganized spate of natural history facts. Those are all interesting, of course, but they're not what you would ask Masear (or any rescuer) about if you got her all to yourself over dinner. You'd want to hear the stories. This book is full of stories, and stories told well. She gives you the quotidian details of her life, the humor and the heartbreak, and (best of all) anecdotes about the personalities of the hummingbirds.
Not just a tale of hummingbirds, this is also a song of hope for the condition of humans, and our ability to share the planet with non-human denizens. It's full of fascinating facts, turning you into a walking, talking, probably annoying-your-friends stream of very cool things to know and share. (Did you know hummingbirds eat fruit flies and have to have protein to thrive? Did you know that to get a hummingbird out of the fire station, all you have to do is pull the trucks into the driveway? Did you know that there are 330 species of hummingbirds?? Did you know a mother will run her feet along a fledgling's back to encourage it to leave the nest? Me, neither!)
I have already made a list of the people I know who need this book. It is not a short list. I highly recommend this book to everyone.
(Also: This book rehabilitated the name Gabriel for me, which, after Dorothy Dunnett, I didn't think anything could do.)
The women and men who rehabilitate and care for wildlife are a unique and interesting tribe. They do the often tedious, thankless, exhausting jobs that we all like to imagine we'd like to do. They're fascinating people. Sadly (for us) very few of them are also gifted writers. Terry Masear is one of the few who excels in both worlds. The result is this jewel of a book offering a glimpse into the world of hummingbird rescue.
Masear is a wonderful writer, and this book is one of the most beautiful, and most enjoyable, I have read this year. Often, when a rehabber writes a book, they focus on the sweeping challenges they face, dwell on the logistics of care or diagnoses, or drown you in an unorganized spate of natural history facts. Those are all interesting, of course, but they're not what you would ask Masear (or any rescuer) about if you got her all to yourself over dinner. You'd want to hear the stories. This book is full of stories, and stories told well. She gives you the quotidian details of her life, the humor and the heartbreak, and (best of all) anecdotes about the personalities of the hummingbirds.
Not just a tale of hummingbirds, this is also a song of hope for the condition of humans, and our ability to share the planet with non-human denizens. It's full of fascinating facts, turning you into a walking, talking, probably annoying-your-friends stream of very cool things to know and share. (Did you know hummingbirds eat fruit flies and have to have protein to thrive? Did you know that to get a hummingbird out of the fire station, all you have to do is pull the trucks into the driveway? Did you know that there are 330 species of hummingbirds?? Did you know a mother will run her feet along a fledgling's back to encourage it to leave the nest? Me, neither!)
I have already made a list of the people I know who need this book. It is not a short list. I highly recommend this book to everyone.
(Also: This book rehabilitated the name Gabriel for me, which, after Dorothy Dunnett, I didn't think anything could do.)
May 25, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Earlier this month I put up my hummingbird feeder in anticipation of seeing those ruby throats hanging around my back porch. Because a good friend was reading a book about birds I was inspired to read about some birds, too. I found something I downloaded SIX years ago- The Fasting Thing on Wings. This work of non-fiction was so entertaining. Terry Masear runs a hummingbird rescue/rehab in West Hollywood. In the one summer she writes about, she took in 160 birds from May until August. Some are newborn, some are fledglings, and the remainder are injured. In particular, this book is about Gabriel and Pepper, two birds that took most of the summer to rehab, but interspersed are lots of great stories about the various hummers and the people who brought them to her. And lots of great pictures as well. Living East of the Mississippi River, I only get to see the ruby throated variety. I’m jealous of all the different types you all have on the West Coast! Great easy read.
Goodreads 2025 Challenge - Book #48 of 125
Earlier this month I put up my hummingbird feeder in anticipation of seeing those ruby throats hanging around my back porch. Because a good friend was reading a book about birds I was inspired to read about some birds, too. I found something I downloaded SIX years ago- The Fasting Thing on Wings. This work of non-fiction was so entertaining. Terry Masear runs a hummingbird rescue/rehab in West Hollywood. In the one summer she writes about, she took in 160 birds from May until August. Some are newborn, some are fledglings, and the remainder are injured. In particular, this book is about Gabriel and Pepper, two birds that took most of the summer to rehab, but interspersed are lots of great stories about the various hummers and the people who brought them to her. And lots of great pictures as well. Living East of the Mississippi River, I only get to see the ruby throated variety. I’m jealous of all the different types you all have on the West Coast! Great easy read.
Goodreads 2025 Challenge - Book #48 of 125
October 21, 2019
I felt sorry about some of the people who ended up as entertaining caricatures in the book. However, it's a minor quibble compared for the hope Masear inspires with her many, many accounts of people who sacrifice their convenience to rush hummingbirds to rescue. Her heart for the work was inspiring and her hummingbird stories were riveting.
April 14, 2016
Meh.
What I liked about this book was all the information and insight about hummingbirds.
What I really, really didn't like about this book was the narrator. After the middle of the book or so I found myself skipping over the ubiquitous "this hummingbird instance reminded me of [x]," where [x] is some random tangent purportedly illustrating the hummingbird thing but actually sort of shoved in (it felt) to show how awesome the author is. I got really tired of hearing her talk about how much work she was constantly doing, how she could never take a break, how she was so gosh darn BUSY all the time (such a martyr!), and how she knew so much about hummingbirds (though she does purport, disingenuously, to be humbled or unsure sometimes). And I really didn't like how she hovered between snarky and flat-out mean to many of the people she comes in contact with through her hummingbird rescue.
So I guess I'm not sad I read it, but I definitely wouldn't read it again, and for someone who wants to learn about hummingbirds I suspect there are probably much better books out there.
What I liked about this book was all the information and insight about hummingbirds.
What I really, really didn't like about this book was the narrator. After the middle of the book or so I found myself skipping over the ubiquitous "this hummingbird instance reminded me of [x]," where [x] is some random tangent purportedly illustrating the hummingbird thing but actually sort of shoved in (it felt) to show how awesome the author is. I got really tired of hearing her talk about how much work she was constantly doing, how she could never take a break, how she was so gosh darn BUSY all the time (such a martyr!), and how she knew so much about hummingbirds (though she does purport, disingenuously, to be humbled or unsure sometimes). And I really didn't like how she hovered between snarky and flat-out mean to many of the people she comes in contact with through her hummingbird rescue.
So I guess I'm not sad I read it, but I definitely wouldn't read it again, and for someone who wants to learn about hummingbirds I suspect there are probably much better books out there.
August 10, 2015
An astonishingly page-turning read, even for someone who is not a nature fanatic.
Wonderfully written in its language and style while embedding detailed information and technical expertise (as well as ethical standards) into a fluid story.
As someone who spent years doing licensed wildlife rehabilitation I was privileged to rescue and eventually release a single hummingbird, which was as memorable an exeperience as any I've ever had.
The intensity of any seasonal rehabilitation work is reflected in this story, magnified a thousand-plus-fold when the sole objects of that service happen to be hummingbirds.
An incredible story, and a superior example of how nonfiction can be every bit as dramatic and compelling as the best of fiction.
Wonderfully written in its language and style while embedding detailed information and technical expertise (as well as ethical standards) into a fluid story.
As someone who spent years doing licensed wildlife rehabilitation I was privileged to rescue and eventually release a single hummingbird, which was as memorable an exeperience as any I've ever had.
The intensity of any seasonal rehabilitation work is reflected in this story, magnified a thousand-plus-fold when the sole objects of that service happen to be hummingbirds.
An incredible story, and a superior example of how nonfiction can be every bit as dramatic and compelling as the best of fiction.
July 1, 2015
This is a beautiful book! I enjoyed reading both about hummingbirds, and the life of a hummingbird rehabber. Hummingbirds are amazing little beings; the people who devote so much love and time and energy into helping them are amazing, too. I also enjoyed reading about Terry Masear's thoughtful search into the right way for people to live, with each other, and with the other creatures who inhabit the planet with us. Terry Masear is an excellent writer and storyteller; I zipped through this book much too fast, but at least I can have the pleasure of rereading it.
February 15, 2016
I love my "pet" hummingbirds and have committed to refilling their feeders regularly and bringing them indoors on cold nights so they won't freeze. But what Terry does on behalf of these amazing creatures is beyond heroic: she takes in injured hummingbirds and rehabilitates them. This can take 4-6 weeks per bird. Imagine having 70 birds under your care who need feeding every 30 minutes. Thank you Terry for sharing your job with us, and more importantly, saving thousands of these little guys every year.
June 30, 2015
Amazingly gentle insight
A thoughtfully written book with funny and sad parts a d lot of education . Didn't want the book to end.
A thoughtfully written book with funny and sad parts a d lot of education . Didn't want the book to end.
July 25, 2015
a captivating, heartening account of hummingbird rescue in the city of angels, fastest things on wings is indispensable reading for admirers of the trochilidae family. terry masear, a hollywood-based rehabber (and karate black belt!), has been rescuing the winged marvels for a decade. recounting the ups and downs of hummingbird rescue (for both the rescued and the rescuer), masear conveys the challenges, joys, frustrations, surprises, and moments tender and unexpected.
with an inviting prose style, masear's book flutters between fascinating, touching, funny, bittersweet, philosophical (per her musings on the teachings of lao tzu), and fury-inducing (you fed a hummingbird strawberries?! ants?!!). framed by the tale of two particular rescues, gabriel and pepper, fastest things on wings is composed largely of anecdotal accounts of hummingbirds brought to her by concerned angelenos. masear's tireless devotion to and love of these tiniest of birds is enviable and remarkable (it's entirely a labor of love). fastest things on wings, despite already being an h-bird obsessive, was far more wonderful than i initially imagined it could have been. masear herself is as lively a character as the little gems she so selflessly tends to, making her book all the richer and more rewarding.
terry's hummingbird rescue website
with an inviting prose style, masear's book flutters between fascinating, touching, funny, bittersweet, philosophical (per her musings on the teachings of lao tzu), and fury-inducing (you fed a hummingbird strawberries?! ants?!!). framed by the tale of two particular rescues, gabriel and pepper, fastest things on wings is composed largely of anecdotal accounts of hummingbirds brought to her by concerned angelenos. masear's tireless devotion to and love of these tiniest of birds is enviable and remarkable (it's entirely a labor of love). fastest things on wings, despite already being an h-bird obsessive, was far more wonderful than i initially imagined it could have been. masear herself is as lively a character as the little gems she so selflessly tends to, making her book all the richer and more rewarding.
and this is why so many callers are coming apart at the seams when they encounter a dying hummingbird. people feel so tightly bound to hummingbirds that the birds become miniature mirrors. in urban communities throughout los angeles, hummingbirds are the poster children for primal innocence, both theirs and ours. they symbolize the beauty of pristine nature before human civilization came tromping into paradise with its rough, heavy boots and mucked everything up. and despite our ongoing interference, these fearless spirits continue living alongside us, serving as a reminder of what once was, and what can be. this is why their deaths, as small and insignificant as they may seem, have the power to drive the hard truth of our own mortality straight home. because in the end, as much as we work to deny it, our fundamental condition is not so different from theirs.
terry's hummingbird rescue website
September 7, 2015
I'm a birder. Birds in the wild fascinate me, and I am certain that watching the song and shore birds that populated my yard when I was in recuperation mode after being placed on medical leave were crucial to my healing. It was a thrill for me to learn the different species that came past my window, but a true milestone when I realized I could identify different individual birds by their habits, markings, and personality. But to care for them, in my home? I don't think I have what it takes.
I've now read two memoirs written by people who have rescued birds. In each case, the species are ones I love (the first was a barn owl and now this book on hummingbirds). And, in each case, the authors have sacrificed much of their lives and personal freedoms to care for the birds that the winds of fate have blown their way. Their dedication, and that of people who rehab hurt animals, amazes me. I'm a nurse, but as a caregiver to ill or hurt humans, I could put in my 8 hours and go home. For author Terry Masear and others who run rehab centers for injured, it's a 24/7 commitment during fledgling season. Wow.
This book taught me a lot. I will admit that when I heard Masear speak on a radio talk show, I thought she was anthropomorphizing a lot. But reading the situations, rather than hearing a brief radio chat, threw her observations and assumptions into a bit clearer light. I've always liked seeing hummingbirds buzz about, but now I shall look at them with different eyes.
I've now read two memoirs written by people who have rescued birds. In each case, the species are ones I love (the first was a barn owl and now this book on hummingbirds). And, in each case, the authors have sacrificed much of their lives and personal freedoms to care for the birds that the winds of fate have blown their way. Their dedication, and that of people who rehab hurt animals, amazes me. I'm a nurse, but as a caregiver to ill or hurt humans, I could put in my 8 hours and go home. For author Terry Masear and others who run rehab centers for injured, it's a 24/7 commitment during fledgling season. Wow.
This book taught me a lot. I will admit that when I heard Masear speak on a radio talk show, I thought she was anthropomorphizing a lot. But reading the situations, rather than hearing a brief radio chat, threw her observations and assumptions into a bit clearer light. I've always liked seeing hummingbirds buzz about, but now I shall look at them with different eyes.
March 26, 2018
Full disclosure: I don't like birds. They terrify me.
Hummingbirds being the exception, and even more so now that I've devoured this book.
(I've read it three times in the past year!)
Fastest Things on Wings is a rare glimpse into this hidden wonderland of the lives of hummingbirds, and a California woman's heroic efforts to rescue and rehabilitate them. The care, compassion and love Terry has for these almost mythical creatures is astounding, and my heart is ten times bigger after reading of some of these stories, including that of Garbriel, a male rescued in the middle of Rodeo Drive, and female hummingbird Pepper, who was injured on a movie set. You come to admire these tiny little birds stories of tenacity and strength, mixed in with dash of science, a whole lot of heart and honestly, a bit of magic.
It takes a lot of time, energy and strength to rehabilitate any animal. There are some very sad losses, but some delightful, and charming wins throughout this book and you relish in the fact that this type of job actually exists, and how quickly you are pulled in and charmed by it's tight knit community.
I learned so much about the migration, mating, and eating habits of these creatures, and it has me hungry to learn more about this splendid, beautiful bird that enamors so many.
5 Stars - without a doubt.
Hummingbirds being the exception, and even more so now that I've devoured this book.
(I've read it three times in the past year!)
Fastest Things on Wings is a rare glimpse into this hidden wonderland of the lives of hummingbirds, and a California woman's heroic efforts to rescue and rehabilitate them. The care, compassion and love Terry has for these almost mythical creatures is astounding, and my heart is ten times bigger after reading of some of these stories, including that of Garbriel, a male rescued in the middle of Rodeo Drive, and female hummingbird Pepper, who was injured on a movie set. You come to admire these tiny little birds stories of tenacity and strength, mixed in with dash of science, a whole lot of heart and honestly, a bit of magic.
It takes a lot of time, energy and strength to rehabilitate any animal. There are some very sad losses, but some delightful, and charming wins throughout this book and you relish in the fact that this type of job actually exists, and how quickly you are pulled in and charmed by it's tight knit community.
I learned so much about the migration, mating, and eating habits of these creatures, and it has me hungry to learn more about this splendid, beautiful bird that enamors so many.
5 Stars - without a doubt.
March 2, 2019
My family and friends grew tired of me sharing fascinating hummingbird trivia I picked up in this book. But all those factoids really helped me understand these tiny,. beautiful jewels of the air. I appreciated Masear's passion for her rescue birds and her incredible dedication to the cause. Sometimes, I felt a disconnect like reading a series of magazine articles or perhaps the book was a bit longer than it needed to be. Still, I enjoyed it very much
February 12, 2021
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway. I started reading it right away and was totally absorbed. Unfortunately, something else came along, and for whatever reason the book was put aside for longer than it should have ben.
Noting the subtitle on the book, the reader can easily discern the main topic of the book. I didn't even know they had birds in Hollywood, much less hummingbirds. But rest assured that they do, and they do not lack for accidents flying into windows of office buildings, car windshields, anything that gets in their way, and accidents if they get in any predator's way. Many types of folks come across these injured birds, and many end up in the capable hands of Terry Masear, a 'rehabber', who spends a lot of time and energy restoring them to health and to the outdoors. It seems this is indeed a 24/7 job, but Terry is a volunteer!
Nevertheless, she is a highly educated and intelligent woman [PhD from UCLA] who also holds down a full time position there in the 'slow' periods of hummingbird rehab.
Yes, if she were a Catholic [which I don't know], she would be canonized a Saint. In some places in the book, where she compared the healing of the hummers to the care of sick people, I easily envisioned Mother Theresa. I learned a lot - starting from not knowing much at all - and totally enjoyed the book. The photos are absolutely gorgeous, and the author provides a site where the reader can find more: losangeleshummingbirdrescue.org. I missed it the first time around, but am delighted to add that here for those interested and who don't yet have a copy of this classic!
Noting the subtitle on the book, the reader can easily discern the main topic of the book. I didn't even know they had birds in Hollywood, much less hummingbirds. But rest assured that they do, and they do not lack for accidents flying into windows of office buildings, car windshields, anything that gets in their way, and accidents if they get in any predator's way. Many types of folks come across these injured birds, and many end up in the capable hands of Terry Masear, a 'rehabber', who spends a lot of time and energy restoring them to health and to the outdoors. It seems this is indeed a 24/7 job, but Terry is a volunteer!
Nevertheless, she is a highly educated and intelligent woman [PhD from UCLA] who also holds down a full time position there in the 'slow' periods of hummingbird rehab.
Yes, if she were a Catholic [which I don't know], she would be canonized a Saint. In some places in the book, where she compared the healing of the hummers to the care of sick people, I easily envisioned Mother Theresa. I learned a lot - starting from not knowing much at all - and totally enjoyed the book. The photos are absolutely gorgeous, and the author provides a site where the reader can find more: losangeleshummingbirdrescue.org. I missed it the first time around, but am delighted to add that here for those interested and who don't yet have a copy of this classic!
October 5, 2019
If I ever needed encouragement *not* to think about rehabbing hummingbirds, Terry has provided it. Not for the faint at heart!
But I am infinitely grateful that there are people out there, like Terry, for whom the joys of the seeing hummers recover then thrive to return to the wild, outweigh the trials of getting them thru to that release. The time - and money - invested is staggering. Thanx to all wildlife rehabbers, starting with Terry.
But I am infinitely grateful that there are people out there, like Terry, for whom the joys of the seeing hummers recover then thrive to return to the wild, outweigh the trials of getting them thru to that release. The time - and money - invested is staggering. Thanx to all wildlife rehabbers, starting with Terry.
February 7, 2024
This book brings the reader into the magical world of hummingbirds. Wonderful, heartwarming (and some heart-breaking) stories of these amazing creatures. I became so attached to some of them that I wonder how Terry (the author) could bring herself to let them go back out into the world!
September 11, 2024
Nice summer read for the garden; reminding me of all those years I spent in Los Angeles.
November 1, 2023
Read this for a book club I run and honestly this was great. As a person with wildlife rehab experience it captures the trials and tribulations so perfectly with a perfect balance of objective science and compassion. I enjoyed it most out of all books I’ve selected for this group. It reads very easy, is relatable and approachable for seasoned science readers to animal-loving hobbyists.
July 20, 2019
This book focuses more on Terry's mission as a hummingbird rehabber than anything else, but it still gives a lot of information on their biology and behavior. Unlike other books of this kind, it doesn't offer general details but talks only about LA "hummers." There isn't too much detail on the different kinds of birds, so you will only learn about a few. Still, it's very informative. The bulk of the book is just stories about her patients and the humans who rescued them. A lot of reviewers complain that there is too much venting about how hard rehabbing wildlife is but I got it. I've tried to rescue many critters in my life and I've been one of the people desperate for help and guidance so, if she complains about how hard it is to actually save lives, she has the right. If nothing else, I know now how to better manage my feeder at home and learned that my "Greenie" is most likely a black-chinned hummingbird.
January 15, 2020
I am always willing to admit where my limits are in environmental education. I know some things about birds, but I am by no means an expert. I remember when someone asked me if I know all of the bird calls. I said, all of them? That probably is not in the realm of possibility for a highly trained ornithologist, but it definitely is not for me as a generalist.
I try not to be a specialist in too much because my niche requires me to be a generalist. However, I do like to brush up on subjects I do not know. I have been reading about insects and plants a lot and I have explored bears and canines in recent months. This time, I took on hummingbirds.
I just finished Fastest Things on Wings by Terry Masear. It is a phenomenal book. I read a review on the front about how it is a gripping read and I agree to no end. It is a carefully woven story about Masear’s work as a hummingbird rehabilitator. It is so fascinating. The book, for me, was like a whirlwind adventure, I could not be parted from it, I needed to read it to the very end. I even read the epilogue; I very rarely do.
I could not possibly list all of the things I loved about the book. There were some sad, heart-wrenching moments, but that does not make me dislike this book. There is no one thing I can share that makes this book bad. Not. One. Thing.
Please read it. Full marks for amazing.
I try not to be a specialist in too much because my niche requires me to be a generalist. However, I do like to brush up on subjects I do not know. I have been reading about insects and plants a lot and I have explored bears and canines in recent months. This time, I took on hummingbirds.
I just finished Fastest Things on Wings by Terry Masear. It is a phenomenal book. I read a review on the front about how it is a gripping read and I agree to no end. It is a carefully woven story about Masear’s work as a hummingbird rehabilitator. It is so fascinating. The book, for me, was like a whirlwind adventure, I could not be parted from it, I needed to read it to the very end. I even read the epilogue; I very rarely do.
I could not possibly list all of the things I loved about the book. There were some sad, heart-wrenching moments, but that does not make me dislike this book. There is no one thing I can share that makes this book bad. Not. One. Thing.
Please read it. Full marks for amazing.
October 28, 2015
This book really added to my love and respect for these color flashes in my garden and at the feeder I keep in view. And it was incredible the amount of work Terry puts in each year between April and early August as people from all over Los Angeles bring her hummingbirds in all states of injury and disarray so she can nurse them back to a wild-survival state. She tries with every person to teach them and praise their efforts. And some of the sacrifices they make and lengths they go to get birds to her are stories themselves. Actually, her portraits of people are just as fascinating as those of birds, who really have distinct personalities just as dogs or cats do. There's the butler and staff of a Hollywood celebrity, the mother of an extremely spoiled young child, the nearly blind 90-year old, and the totally self-absorbed neurotic whose conversation she recreates to great effect. She presents some of the theories about why people get such an emotional investment in these tiny birds. The center photo section is lovely. I would have really liked a page or two of summary points at the end: sugar water formula reminder, mother's feeding habits for her nestlings, best flowers, informative websites etc.
February 22, 2016
This is an amazing and touching book, so touching that I could only read a chapter at a time because I started crying over each hummingbird rescue story! Beautifully and compellingly written by Terry Masear, a university professor and summertime hummingbird rescuer and rehabber in Los Angeles. Along with each story, Masear teaches the reader about hummingbirds, all kinds of facts and details that you would never find all in one place. Did you know they are physically incapable of walking?
Did you know that hatchlings are the size of a thumbnail? Did you know that many of them travel thousands of miles each winter and return to the same place in the summer, to the same feeder, on the same block? The list goes on and on. Utterly incredible. I fell in love with every little hummer that Masear brought back from the brink of death, literally breathing life into them. I would recommend this book for its information and its entertainment value to anyone who loves wildlife and wants to see it preserved, or anyone who loves a good, well-written book!
Did you know that hatchlings are the size of a thumbnail? Did you know that many of them travel thousands of miles each winter and return to the same place in the summer, to the same feeder, on the same block? The list goes on and on. Utterly incredible. I fell in love with every little hummer that Masear brought back from the brink of death, literally breathing life into them. I would recommend this book for its information and its entertainment value to anyone who loves wildlife and wants to see it preserved, or anyone who loves a good, well-written book!
June 24, 2017
I was not at all expecting this book to captivate me the way it did. I picked it because I needed the Dewey Decimal number for a reading challenge, so it wasn't one I would normally go for, but I fell in love with it instantly. You so rarely find nonfiction books that draw the attention this way. It was entertaining, educational, and refreshing.
The author explains the need for the care of wild hummingbirds by telling personal stories about the emergency rescue care she gives to wild hummingbirds who have come into peril in one way or another. A book like this is sure to be full of emotion for all animal lovers, but it is also fun and educational. We have a humming bird feeder at our house, but now that we know the importance of it, I am going to work much harder on keeping it exactly as the birds need it to be.
Reading this book I found myself laughing at parts, surprised at miraculous stories, and saddened by the obvious reality that not all lives can be saved. It is the most rounded storytelling a book about hummingbird rescue can be.
The author explains the need for the care of wild hummingbirds by telling personal stories about the emergency rescue care she gives to wild hummingbirds who have come into peril in one way or another. A book like this is sure to be full of emotion for all animal lovers, but it is also fun and educational. We have a humming bird feeder at our house, but now that we know the importance of it, I am going to work much harder on keeping it exactly as the birds need it to be.
Reading this book I found myself laughing at parts, surprised at miraculous stories, and saddened by the obvious reality that not all lives can be saved. It is the most rounded storytelling a book about hummingbird rescue can be.
June 20, 2019
My book club really enjoyed this book about the intersection of wildlife and Southern California. Masear speaks with a passion about hummingbirds and why humans can't "let nature take its course" when hummingbirds are injured, when we've altered the landscape so much and the injuries are often directly due to human actions.
Although she does mention birds she tried to help who died, she does not dwell on the unhappy side of wildlife rehabilitation, so the book is more heartwarming than heartwrenching. She sees the results of people trying to save birds themselves and is very very firm about keeping your hummingbird feeders clean and taking injured birds to people who know what they are doing.
Overall, a quick and enjoyable read, especially if you love birds but even if you aren't a birder.
One note: I was a little disappointed that she downplayed the threat cats are to birds. Her stories were of the "cat rescues bird and brings it to owner" variety rather than the "cat kills endangered bird and doesn't even eat it" variety (although she does talk about both kinds of cats).
Although she does mention birds she tried to help who died, she does not dwell on the unhappy side of wildlife rehabilitation, so the book is more heartwarming than heartwrenching. She sees the results of people trying to save birds themselves and is very very firm about keeping your hummingbird feeders clean and taking injured birds to people who know what they are doing.
Overall, a quick and enjoyable read, especially if you love birds but even if you aren't a birder.
One note: I was a little disappointed that she downplayed the threat cats are to birds. Her stories were of the "cat rescues bird and brings it to owner" variety rather than the "cat kills endangered bird and doesn't even eat it" variety (although she does talk about both kinds of cats).
March 31, 2019
One of my favorite things about living in the Pacific NW is our year round resident hummers, the Anna's. It's totally surreal seeing the male's brilliant magenta pink head flashing against a backdrop of white during a rare snow storm. And it's not spring until the metallic buzz of the rufous graces our yard. Who wouldn't love these pint size iridescent beauties?
Fastest Things was an insightful look into the hummers' world, and the incredible dedication of those willing to volunteer their time to help the injured, lost or abandoned bitty flyers. The book is perfectly balanced between the hummers' stories and scientific facts. You'll be amazed at how much there is to learn about these little chaps. Highly recommended.
Fastest Things was an insightful look into the hummers' world, and the incredible dedication of those willing to volunteer their time to help the injured, lost or abandoned bitty flyers. The book is perfectly balanced between the hummers' stories and scientific facts. You'll be amazed at how much there is to learn about these little chaps. Highly recommended.
October 13, 2015
I really didn't know how to rate this - parts I really liked and parts I didn't... I liked the hummingbird stuff - but was completely not interested in her horse, her back injury, her travels, her personal philosophy..so distracting - but easy to skip.
And I also thought she was a bit a snot to some of the people asking for her help. I am sure it's not intentional but boy oh boy she seems to present herself as just the perfect person and a bit of a martyr. And I always say ' no one likes a martyr '
And I also thought she was a bit a snot to some of the people asking for her help. I am sure it's not intentional but boy oh boy she seems to present herself as just the perfect person and a bit of a martyr. And I always say ' no one likes a martyr '
June 17, 2016
Glorious, simply glorious on so many levels. If you are interested in the trials and victories of urban wildlife, the exhausting but beautiful life of a wildlife rehabber or love hummingbirds, this book will leave you feeling all of the emotions. All. Of. Them. This book was such a pleasure to read, I'm sad that I've finished it! The author is an incredible human being and that comes through clearly in the book. She writes with humor and tenderness about her tiny patients and their human rescuers as well as herself.
July 23, 2017
I LOVED this book. It sounds like the kind of book that would have limited, niche, appeal. And while I do have an affinity for hummingbirds, I found the book to be so compelling and beautifully written that I think even non-hummingbird fans would like it. She weaves in fascinating facts about hummingbirds into her various and crazy stories about rescuing them. She exerts as much energy managing humans and their emotions about hummingbirds, as she does with the tiny winged creaters themselves. I thoroughly enjoyed it, and would highly recommend.
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