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Bird Watcher: A Novel
Who is the bird watcher and why does he steal airplanes? A terrorist, or is he?
When Jerry Christensens Cessna disappears from its tie-down at Palo Alto Airporta small white airplane with a thousand clones and a hundred places to hideAir Traffic Control cant help, and the FBI isnt interested. Jerry, a schoolteacher, is unsuited to pursue a criminal but determines to catch the thief himself. He acts on hunches and makes outrageous planshis imagination and his background as a pilot his only weapons against serial aircraft thefts and a conspiracy against Hoover Dam. Will Jerry stop the thief in time?
When Jerry Christensens Cessna disappears from its tie-down at Palo Alto Airporta small white airplane with a thousand clones and a hundred places to hideAir Traffic Control cant help, and the FBI isnt interested. Jerry, a schoolteacher, is unsuited to pursue a criminal but determines to catch the thief himself. He acts on hunches and makes outrageous planshis imagination and his background as a pilot his only weapons against serial aircraft thefts and a conspiracy against Hoover Dam. Will Jerry stop the thief in time?
384 pages, Paperback
First published September 7, 2007
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
February 7, 2025
Reading Marjorie Johnson's "The Bird Watcher: A Novel" was like flying through a storm of mystery and excitement related to aviation. I was enthralled with Jerry's unwavering quest for the truth from the time his Cessna disappeared from Palo Alto Airport. Jerry, a former teacher, suddenly finds himself a detective on a mission to expose a terrorist who is impersonating a kind bird watcher and stealing airplanes.
The story's thrilling turns and surprises kept me on the edge of my seat. I had a great time tracking Jerry's travels across California as he came across hints and encountered unforeseen difficulties. Johnson's detailed descriptions thoroughly engrossed me in the journey by creating a clear image of the sceneries and the thrilling rush of flying.
Overall, "The Bird Watcher: A Novel" is a thrilling read for anyone who enjoys a mix of mystery and the adrenaline rush of aviation. Johnson's storytelling made the adventure feel real and kept me enthralled from beginning to end.
The story's thrilling turns and surprises kept me on the edge of my seat. I had a great time tracking Jerry's travels across California as he came across hints and encountered unforeseen difficulties. Johnson's detailed descriptions thoroughly engrossed me in the journey by creating a clear image of the sceneries and the thrilling rush of flying.
Overall, "The Bird Watcher: A Novel" is a thrilling read for anyone who enjoys a mix of mystery and the adrenaline rush of aviation. Johnson's storytelling made the adventure feel real and kept me enthralled from beginning to end.
February 5, 2025
Marjorie Johnson’s "The Bird Watcher: A Novel" is an exhilarating read that I highly recommend. One part that really grabbed my attention was when Jerry Christensen taps into his pilot instincts and bold imagination to hunt down his stolen Cessna. It's a pivotal moment that shows Jerry evolving from a regular schoolteacher into a determined investigator. The suspense builds masterfully as Jerry unravels a larger conspiracy centered around Hoover Dam, keeping me glued to the pages.
The plot gains depth via Johnson's evocative descriptions of the natural world, which also improves the reading experience in general. Each of the intriguing individuals has secrets and goals of their own that deepen the mystery. "The Bird Watcher: A Novel" is a must-read if you love mysteries with a modern twist and a great feeling of adventure! It has just the right amount of mystery, suspense, and exciting discoveries that keep you wanting more!
The plot gains depth via Johnson's evocative descriptions of the natural world, which also improves the reading experience in general. Each of the intriguing individuals has secrets and goals of their own that deepen the mystery. "The Bird Watcher: A Novel" is a must-read if you love mysteries with a modern twist and a great feeling of adventure! It has just the right amount of mystery, suspense, and exciting discoveries that keep you wanting more!
February 7, 2025
I'm taken on an exhilarating adventure by "The Bird Watcher: A Novel" from the very first page. The unforeseen occurrence that centers the plot is the theft of an airplane for possibly evil intentions. What begins as a perplexing riddle soon becomes an exciting story of danger and intrigue. The protagonist of the story is a schoolteacher who, after being first disregarded by the authorities, decides to find out the truth. Unexpected partnerships arise along the road, giving the wide cast of individuals in the plot more nuance. Johnson deftly examines themes of resiliency and atonement in between heart-pounding chases, captures, and escapes. With every turn and twist, the plot gets more complex, keeping me in suspense until the shocking ending. 'The Bird Watcher: A Novel' delivers a perfect mix of mystery, action, and human drama, making it an irresistible page-turner for fans of suspenseful fiction.
February 7, 2025
In the best way possible, "The Bird Watcher: A Novel" surprised me with its ending. I was caught up in the tension the entire time as Jerry resolved the mystery around his explosive weapon, which was actually a stolen Cessna. However, the way Johnson concluded things? I had no idea that would happen. It caught me off guard and caused me to reconsider all I had assumed to be true about the people and their motivations.
The way the story came to a close while still leaving me with questions was what most impressed me about the conclusion. It was unexpected and stuck with me long after I put the book down. The way Johnson wrapped up all the loose ends and presented a pleasant and thought-provoking ending is a testament to her storytelling prowess.
Overall, the ending of "The Bird Watcher: A Novel" left me impressed and pondering. I'll be eagerly awaiting the sequel to dive back into this world of intrigue and suspense!
The way the story came to a close while still leaving me with questions was what most impressed me about the conclusion. It was unexpected and stuck with me long after I put the book down. The way Johnson wrapped up all the loose ends and presented a pleasant and thought-provoking ending is a testament to her storytelling prowess.
Overall, the ending of "The Bird Watcher: A Novel" left me impressed and pondering. I'll be eagerly awaiting the sequel to dive back into this world of intrigue and suspense!
February 5, 2025
As a fellow writer, I'm thoroughly impressed by Marjorie Johnson’s "The Bird Watcher: A Novel," which I wholeheartedly recommend. What truly captivated me was Johnson's vivid description of the settings. Her detailed portrayal of the Palo Alto Airport and its surroundings made me feel like I was right there, experiencing the suspense alongside Jerry Christensen. The meticulous attention to landscapes and scenes created a rich, immersive atmosphere that heightened the tension and excitement of the plot. This book is a perfect choice for readers who appreciate well-crafted settings that play a significant role in mysteries. Johnson's ability to bring these locations to life adds depth to the narrative and enhances the overall reading experience, making "The Bird Watcher: A Novel" a standout in its genre, hands down!
February 5, 2025
"The Bird Watcher: A Novel" is an engrossing book that transports me to a peaceful, suspenseful bird-watching community full of secrets. It deftly examines themes of treachery and trust with its captivating characters and surprising narrative turns.
One powerful moment in the story stands out to me: "He’s training young men to fly on terrorist missions." This line starkly reminds me of the harsh realities faced by some children today, growing up in environments where innocence is overshadowed by darker influences. Johnson's narrative draws attention to these challenging issues while keeping me engaged with its thought-provoking storyline.
All things considered, "The Bird Watcher: A Novel" is a carefully written book that blends mystery with societal criticism. If you're someone like me and you prefer to read literature that delves into difficult subjects, this is a great read.
One powerful moment in the story stands out to me: "He’s training young men to fly on terrorist missions." This line starkly reminds me of the harsh realities faced by some children today, growing up in environments where innocence is overshadowed by darker influences. Johnson's narrative draws attention to these challenging issues while keeping me engaged with its thought-provoking storyline.
All things considered, "The Bird Watcher: A Novel" is a carefully written book that blends mystery with societal criticism. If you're someone like me and you prefer to read literature that delves into difficult subjects, this is a great read.
February 7, 2025
Reading 'The Bird Watcher: A Novel' by Marjorie Johnson was like a wake-up call in suspenseful storytelling. I will never forget the lesson Jerry's experiences taught me: never put your trust in someone too quickly. Jerry's story served as a reminder to me to trust my gut feeling, particularly when doubt starts to creep in.
Jerry's battle, in which he encountered authorities' incredulity and indifference, brought home the value of independence and tenacity. It served as a sobering reminder that, in certain situations, when no one else is willing to help, you must act alone.
'The Bird Watcher: A Novel' is an exciting read that will not let you down if you like stories where characters, like Jerry, have to follow their instincts and make their way through danger and deceit. Get ready for an intense story that will keep you wondering right up until the very end.
Jerry's battle, in which he encountered authorities' incredulity and indifference, brought home the value of independence and tenacity. It served as a sobering reminder that, in certain situations, when no one else is willing to help, you must act alone.
'The Bird Watcher: A Novel' is an exciting read that will not let you down if you like stories where characters, like Jerry, have to follow their instincts and make their way through danger and deceit. Get ready for an intense story that will keep you wondering right up until the very end.
February 7, 2025
"The Bird Watcher: A Novel" begins with an explosive event and unfolds with surprising twists. It follows a determined school teacher and aviation enthusiast who sets out to uncover the thief responsible for turning his airplane into an explosive weapon.
The story is filled with thrilling pursuits, unexpected alliances, and moments of strategic brilliance as the protagonist navigates through perilous challenges. Marjorie Johnson skillfully weaves themes of bravery and deception, maintaining high tension throughout the narrative.
With each new chapter, the mystery and tension build to an unexpectedly intense finish. For those who like intriguing thrillers and thought-provoking mysteries, "The Bird Watcher: A Novel" is a fascinating book that deftly combines action with complex storytelling.
The story is filled with thrilling pursuits, unexpected alliances, and moments of strategic brilliance as the protagonist navigates through perilous challenges. Marjorie Johnson skillfully weaves themes of bravery and deception, maintaining high tension throughout the narrative.
With each new chapter, the mystery and tension build to an unexpectedly intense finish. For those who like intriguing thrillers and thought-provoking mysteries, "The Bird Watcher: A Novel" is a fascinating book that deftly combines action with complex storytelling.
February 5, 2025
Marjorie Johnson’s "The Bird Watcher: A Novel" is a captivating story that I highly recommend. My favorite part was when Jerry Christensen bravely faced off against the aircraft thief. Jerry’s courage and quick thinking during the confrontation were truly exciting. The reveal of the Bird Watcher's true identity was a surprising twist that neatly tied everything together.
If you enjoy mysteries with suspense and clever surprises, this book is a must-read! Johnson’s storytelling blends thrilling action with interesting characters and a detailed plot. "The Bird Watcher: A Novel" takes you on an engaging journey that keeps you guessing until the end, making it a memorable read for anyone who loves thrilling stories and unexpected revelations.
If you enjoy mysteries with suspense and clever surprises, this book is a must-read! Johnson’s storytelling blends thrilling action with interesting characters and a detailed plot. "The Bird Watcher: A Novel" takes you on an engaging journey that keeps you guessing until the end, making it a memorable read for anyone who loves thrilling stories and unexpected revelations.
February 7, 2025
The narrative keeps getting better and better, drawing you farther into its mysterious and secretive universe. "The Bird Watcher: A Novel" by Marjorie Johnson is an absolute must-read because it never ceases to wow you with unexpected turns and turns. You keep wanting more because, just when you think you understand the plot, another layer is revealed.
It's impossible to put the book down because of the unending suspense and never-ending anticipation of the next shocking revelation. For lovers of suspenseful thrillers that keep you wondering right up to the very end, "The Bird Watcher: A Novel" is a must-read. Johnson's amazing writing skillfully brought you into the characters' adventures on an emotional level, and for that I am grateful!
It's impossible to put the book down because of the unending suspense and never-ending anticipation of the next shocking revelation. For lovers of suspenseful thrillers that keep you wondering right up to the very end, "The Bird Watcher: A Novel" is a must-read. Johnson's amazing writing skillfully brought you into the characters' adventures on an emotional level, and for that I am grateful!
February 7, 2025
As someone who enjoys stories set in familiar places, "The Bird Watcher: A Novel" by Marjorie Johnson fully satisfied my curiosity. It immersed me in the world of aviation enthusiasts confronting daunting challenges. Johnson's vivid portrayal of California's diverse landscape—from the serene bird sanctuaries of the San Francisco Bay Area to the rugged beauty of the desert and Central Coast—captivated me. The characters' unwavering devotion to flying added depth to the narrative, making it exceptionally compelling. This novel is an ideal read for those intrigued by suspenseful mysteries and captivated by the thrill of flight, offering a rich blend of settings and characters that bring the story to life with every turn of the page
February 7, 2025
As a student, "The Bird Watcher: A Novel" by Marjorie Johnson hit me hard. It's a story that opened my eyes to the harsh realities of terrorism lurking in unexpected places, even though it's a fictional tale. Jerry's mission to find his stolen plane turned into a thrilling journey against a terrorist pretending to be a bird watcher. The suspense and danger felt real, and how the characters faced their fears stuck with me.
The story's twists kept me guessing and contemplating who could be trusted. It's more than just an exciting story. It is a powerful reminder to be cautious and resilient in difficult situations. I highly suggest this book because of its compelling narrative and motivational lesson on tenacity and endurance in the face of adversity.
The story's twists kept me guessing and contemplating who could be trusted. It's more than just an exciting story. It is a powerful reminder to be cautious and resilient in difficult situations. I highly suggest this book because of its compelling narrative and motivational lesson on tenacity and endurance in the face of adversity.
February 5, 2025
If you're into thrilling mysteries with airplanes, "The Bird Watcher: A Novel" by Marjorie Johnson is a must-read. I couldn't put it down! It was breathtaking following Jerry Christensen, the main character, as he sets out to recover his stolen Cessna and discovers a web of aircraft thefts and a dangerous scheme targeting Hoover Dam!
The well-crafted suspense and intricate aviation details kept me hooked from start to finish. I feel like I was flying a plane! This book is ideal for fans of mysteries and aviation literature alike because of Johnson's inventive and captivating writing. Because of its captivating story turns and vivid, off-the-page characters, I heartily recommend it!
The well-crafted suspense and intricate aviation details kept me hooked from start to finish. I feel like I was flying a plane! This book is ideal for fans of mysteries and aviation literature alike because of Johnson's inventive and captivating writing. Because of its captivating story turns and vivid, off-the-page characters, I heartily recommend it!
February 7, 2025
Teachers should definitely read "The Bird Watcher" because of its compelling story and thought-provoking topics. It offers plenty of chances to talk on moral quandaries, personal qualities, and the results of deeds. It encourages empathy and critical thinking by putting opposing ideas and difficult decisions in front of the audience.
"The Bird Watcher: A Novel" is not only a valuable teaching tool but also a fun read that can spark interesting discussions about morals, society, and personal responsibility in the classroom. This book makes students think critically and makes them realize how complicated the world is. Would definitely share this book with my co-teachers!
"The Bird Watcher: A Novel" is not only a valuable teaching tool but also a fun read that can spark interesting discussions about morals, society, and personal responsibility in the classroom. This book makes students think critically and makes them realize how complicated the world is. Would definitely share this book with my co-teachers!
February 7, 2025
I recommend "The Bird Watcher: A Novel" by Marjorie Johnson. It's quickly become a favorite of mine that draws me back for another read. Its engaging plot twists keeps me eagerly flipping through the pages. Johnson's vivid portrayal of suspense immerses me in the characters' journeys, leaving me excited to see what unfolds next. With each read, I'm hopeful for a sequel that delves deeper into the story's mysteries and develops the characters further.
I hope Johnson releases the sequel soon—I'm eager to dive back into this captivating adventure!
I hope Johnson releases the sequel soon—I'm eager to dive back into this captivating adventure!
January 27, 2017
An airplane stolen - for terrorist purposes. The Cessna owner, a high school teacher, ignored and ridiculed by the FBI, finds that he has to solve the mystery by himself. Along the way old friends and new allies join in the adventure. They find an orphan, used and abused, in need of rescue and redemption and a plot more complex than merely chasing and catching a thief.
From the first explosion on, Marjorie Johnson leads the reader through a twisting trail of discovery. Wild chases, captures, escapes, false clues, and sheer determination culminate in an unexpected ending. Marjorie is an experienced pilot herself and brings an authenticity to the descriptions of the planes and flying experiences.
Mystery, thriller action, humanity. All the elements of a great read.
From the first explosion on, Marjorie Johnson leads the reader through a twisting trail of discovery. Wild chases, captures, escapes, false clues, and sheer determination culminate in an unexpected ending. Marjorie is an experienced pilot herself and brings an authenticity to the descriptions of the planes and flying experiences.
Mystery, thriller action, humanity. All the elements of a great read.
October 30, 2012
Bird Watcher is a novel about a Cessna 172 stolen from Palo Alto Airport, near San Francisco. The Bird Watcher is the thief. The pilot/owners of the Cessna search for the missing airplane and chase the thief. Lots of action. While this is a piece of fiction, the events could have happened. Here's your opportunity to learn about the world of general aviation, and why the Bird Watcher wants to steal an airplane that is too small to be useful for running drugs.
November 15, 2012
This story wasn't only engaging till the end. I also learned a lot about the desert. I had no idea that people lived in the desert like Marjorie Johnson so vividly describes.
I enjoyed the twists and turns and was surprised to find myself changing my opinion of some of the characters at the end of the story.
Reading a book like this beats watching adventure movies on TV anytime.
I enjoyed the twists and turns and was surprised to find myself changing my opinion of some of the characters at the end of the story.
Reading a book like this beats watching adventure movies on TV anytime.
February 8, 2025
Story stays moving keeps you guessing. A little far fetched with many twists and turns.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews