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Odd Birds
Take a look into the life of TV star Ian Harding, an actor on Pretty Little Liars, through the lens of his favorite past time, birding.
A 7-time Teen Choice Award Winner on Freeform's most-watched series, Pretty Little Liars ... A social media influencer with over 7 million followers ... An avid birdwatcher? Yes, you read that correctly. Ian Harding is all of these things, and so much more. In this memoir, explore the unexpected world of a young celebrity through the lens of his favorite pastime -- birding.
Odd Birds is more than just a Hollywood memoir or tell-all. At its heart, this book is a coming-of-age story in which Ian wrestles with an ever evolving question-- how can he still be himself, while also being a celebrity. Each humorous and heartfelt story features a particular bird--sometimes literal, at other times figurative. Using this framework, Ian explores a variety of topics, including growing up, life as a television actor and nature lover, and whether it is better to shave or wax one's chest for an on-screen love scene.
A funny and heartwarming window into Ian's life, Odd Birds is a must-read for fans of nature writing and memoir alike.
A 7-time Teen Choice Award Winner on Freeform's most-watched series, Pretty Little Liars ... A social media influencer with over 7 million followers ... An avid birdwatcher? Yes, you read that correctly. Ian Harding is all of these things, and so much more. In this memoir, explore the unexpected world of a young celebrity through the lens of his favorite pastime -- birding.
Odd Birds is more than just a Hollywood memoir or tell-all. At its heart, this book is a coming-of-age story in which Ian wrestles with an ever evolving question-- how can he still be himself, while also being a celebrity. Each humorous and heartfelt story features a particular bird--sometimes literal, at other times figurative. Using this framework, Ian explores a variety of topics, including growing up, life as a television actor and nature lover, and whether it is better to shave or wax one's chest for an on-screen love scene.
A funny and heartwarming window into Ian's life, Odd Birds is a must-read for fans of nature writing and memoir alike.
272 pages, Paperback
First published May 2, 2017
43 people are currently reading
2461 people want to read
About the author
Ian Harding
1 book109 followersBorn in Heidelberg, Germany, to a US military family, IAN HARDING discovered acting at a young age. He attended Carnegie Mellon University’s School of Drama and moved to LA shortly after graduating to pursue acting and writing. He is best known for his role as Ezra Fitz on Freeform’s (formerly known as ABC Family) Pretty Little Liars, for which he has won seven Teen Choice awards. Ian is passionate about birdwatching and nature, and he tries to spend as much time outdoors as humanly possible.
Librarian's note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Librarian's note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 149 reviews
May 4, 2017
I expected this to be a vapid, silly cash-grab, but it's actually fairly enjoyable. Ian Harding doesn't have much life experience to draw upon and write about (as a good-looking, world-traveling, educated, straight, white guy, he doesn't have a whole lot of adversity to overcome), but the device of framing his experiences through birding is clever. There's a very affecting early chapter about the relationship between his family and birds that really drives that device home and makes it work in ways that I didn't think it could. Harding's not a great writer, though he does occasionally turn a really smart phrase (in the first chapter, he describes someone with scraggly facial hair as "more goat than man," which is perfect) and comes across as very likeable and funny.
Odd Birds doesn't have much to say, which is to be expected from an actor who wrote a book in his late twenties after having been a part of only one popular project, but it's one of the more unique celebrity memoirs I've read... and Lord, I've read a lot of them.
Odd Birds doesn't have much to say, which is to be expected from an actor who wrote a book in his late twenties after having been a part of only one popular project, but it's one of the more unique celebrity memoirs I've read... and Lord, I've read a lot of them.
March 14, 2023
"(...) It's similar to the pain you experience when reading a book that has really moved you. You feel the pages thinning as you near the back cover. You love the book, so you want to keep reading, but you know that the more you read the closer you are to being finished, to not getting to read that book for the first time again. (...)"
I recomend this book for the fans of the actor or the tv series (Pretty Little Liars).
I recomend this book for the fans of the actor or the tv series (Pretty Little Liars).
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August 20, 2017
As a fan of Pretty Little Liars I had to support Ian Harding and see what his book was all about. I won't lie I was a little skeptical knowing it was about birds but, I'm so glad I took the chance! This book is heartwarming, well written and gives an insight into his life and how birding has always been a part of it. I love how he ties different bird stories into real life events. It makes you wonder what one thing in your life has always been with you. I really enjoyed this book. It was a fun and easy read and I didn't want it to end. Great job Ian!! Looking forward and hoping for more books from you :)
May 4, 2017
I actually don't read a lot of "fun" memoirs. Most of them deal with heavy subjects or are just so airy that's eye-roll after side-eye. ODD BIRDS was a breath of fresh air in that Ian's memoir is light-hearted but not so shallow that you feel like you wasted your time. Sure, overall it could have been deeper, but how deep can you really get when you're not at the point of reflecting back on your life? I will say that I can definitely picture him writing more in the future though.
I know next to nothing about bird watching, so I am really pleased that many of Harding's stories revolve around that & then somehow tie-in with a wider concept. Although I can't see myself bird watching anytime in the future, I'm happy to see passion & humbleness. There were also some really funny moments too, which I wasn't expecting. I'm aware of who Harding is & I watched PLL until the 4th season, but I wasn't aware that he could actually crack a successful joke. God, that sounds bad. Sorry. But there's a difference when you're an actor who reads lines from a script & an actor who is trying to tell their life story. All in all, this is a nice read after other intense reads & he comes off as seeming like a great dude. I absolutely would be open to reading about the next chapter in his life, if Harding did feel so inclined. A solid 3.5 stars.
*I received an ARC from Goodreads First Reads & St. Martin's Press in exchange for an honest & unbiased review. Thank you!*
I know next to nothing about bird watching, so I am really pleased that many of Harding's stories revolve around that & then somehow tie-in with a wider concept. Although I can't see myself bird watching anytime in the future, I'm happy to see passion & humbleness. There were also some really funny moments too, which I wasn't expecting. I'm aware of who Harding is & I watched PLL until the 4th season, but I wasn't aware that he could actually crack a successful joke. God, that sounds bad. Sorry. But there's a difference when you're an actor who reads lines from a script & an actor who is trying to tell their life story. All in all, this is a nice read after other intense reads & he comes off as seeming like a great dude. I absolutely would be open to reading about the next chapter in his life, if Harding did feel so inclined. A solid 3.5 stars.
*I received an ARC from Goodreads First Reads & St. Martin's Press in exchange for an honest & unbiased review. Thank you!*
December 17, 2018
Surprisingly delightful.
I do like birds. But I’m not particularly interested in general in actors or the acting life, celebrity, or tv series.
I had no idea who the actor/author was, nor anything about the tv series (Pretty Little Liars) that is his minor claim to fame.
Nevertheless I enjoyed every bit of this life/birding/acting memoir. Devoid of angst, melodrama, or undue ego, but also not featuring anything particularly interesting to highlight, it’s such a personable tale by a smart, interesting young man that I wouldn’t mind reading it again.
I do like birds. But I’m not particularly interested in general in actors or the acting life, celebrity, or tv series.
I had no idea who the actor/author was, nor anything about the tv series (Pretty Little Liars) that is his minor claim to fame.
Nevertheless I enjoyed every bit of this life/birding/acting memoir. Devoid of angst, melodrama, or undue ego, but also not featuring anything particularly interesting to highlight, it’s such a personable tale by a smart, interesting young man that I wouldn’t mind reading it again.
April 27, 2017
My thanks for being given an ARC of this book by NetGalley and St. Martin's Press. I'm not sure what caught my interest in the book description as I've never heard of the author, who was born in Germany and I've never seen Pretty Little Liars. I have heard of the show of course but it's been many years since my teens. The hobby of birding is different and I do like things that are a bit unusual, so I took a chance and went for it. I'm glad I did as I found the book and the author both funny and charming and entertaining to read. By the time I found out about the Labradoodles, I was sold. In fact, if I'd known he had dogs I would have requested the book much sooner, as a dog fan/pet parent myself. I also enjoyed his goofy assortment of friends and family and his easy descriptive way of writing. I hope to see this young man continue to develop his writing in the future as I think he has more to say.
May 23, 2017
I loved this book. Such a fun light read. It is pretty funny too. I read the kindle version and just ordered the actually book because I love it and it needs to be on my book shelf.
July 16, 2019
Odd birds 3.75⭐️
In all honesty i didnt think i would like this. I thought it would be a wuick read with poor writing but i was wrong.
This painted a picture of his life before and after pretty little liars and i felt like i was his friend by the end of it.
So definitely if you are already a fan of him pick it up. And if not pick it up anyway because its not focused on pretty little liars but that was his big break so its in there dont worry.
I love his obsession with birds and his bond with his cast mates. Sometimes reading “celebrity” memiors can feel like all glam and not real but this was real and raw and I throughly enjoyed it.
In all honesty i didnt think i would like this. I thought it would be a wuick read with poor writing but i was wrong.
This painted a picture of his life before and after pretty little liars and i felt like i was his friend by the end of it.
So definitely if you are already a fan of him pick it up. And if not pick it up anyway because its not focused on pretty little liars but that was his big break so its in there dont worry.
I love his obsession with birds and his bond with his cast mates. Sometimes reading “celebrity” memiors can feel like all glam and not real but this was real and raw and I throughly enjoyed it.
November 25, 2017
I have never heard of Pretty Little Liars or Ian Harding, I took this off the “new” shelf at the library because of the title! It sounds like it was written by a teenager so I looked up his age (31) - he has a lot of growing up to do - the book makes him sound like sixteen. The Odd Birds are the actors!, I’d give it a 1 star except I enjoyed the bird parts. PS - still trying to figure out if he married Lucy or Sophia?????
January 4, 2023
Started this book for pll gossip, finished for birding stories, sue me!
March 21, 2023
Really loved this one! Ian is so close to my heart!
July 12, 2017
I gotta say, I picked this up because I'm an unapologetic 41 year old fan of the teenage drama, Pretty Little Liars. I thought why not support the other interests of the cast. For me, this book was written in a style I adore. It jumps around a bit, but in a good way that keeps it interesting. I can relate to a lot of things Ian (I can use his first name because I'm so much older) wrote about. My best friend suffered with lupus, my family thinks my grandparents are in the doves we see. (Not literally, but we like to think it's a reminder) and I was also an outdoor hyper kid, exploring my local "trails" as often as I could. Oh and my dad and I are bird watching crazy people. So I loved learning all about the different birds as well.
Aside from all that, and knowing Ian is an actor so this could be all bullshit, the book seemed real. It seemed as if he's not afraid to simply be who he is and talk openly about his fears and successes. He seems confidant, but not cocky, or not too cocky. It is probably a requirement to have a certain level of conceit in Hollywood, or I imagine you would get eaten alive.
So, all that said, I think you should read it. It's a quick read, and if nothing else, the poor guy might still be unemployed, help him out. 😜
Aside from all that, and knowing Ian is an actor so this could be all bullshit, the book seemed real. It seemed as if he's not afraid to simply be who he is and talk openly about his fears and successes. He seems confidant, but not cocky, or not too cocky. It is probably a requirement to have a certain level of conceit in Hollywood, or I imagine you would get eaten alive.
So, all that said, I think you should read it. It's a quick read, and if nothing else, the poor guy might still be unemployed, help him out. 😜
November 5, 2023
Did I expect a book titled Odd Birds to be so much about bird-watching? Honestly not, but maybe I should have. I guess I had hoped the balance would lean a little more toward biography than birding.
As Harding says himself in the foreword, he was not intending to write a chronological memoir, and it did also read more like a collection of anecdotes. I found this a little hard to navigate.
Overall, it was not badly written, and there were some funny and insightful anecdotes, but I found myself skimming quite a lot.
As Harding says himself in the foreword, he was not intending to write a chronological memoir, and it did also read more like a collection of anecdotes. I found this a little hard to navigate.
Overall, it was not badly written, and there were some funny and insightful anecdotes, but I found myself skimming quite a lot.
March 9, 2021
This was a really solid book! I wasn’t sure what to expect - but I actually found myself super hooked with the bird stories (am I maybe a birder at heart? I don’t know - but he has me questioning it). I love how he tied birds into the stories. I literally laughed out loud at some of the stuff in here. I’m glad that even though it had reference to his PLL days, it wasn’t just a novel about his time on PLL. Very thankful I read this one!
May 30, 2017
Using bird watching as a lens to describe acting, family, love and in general, life was an interesting choice by Ian. I enjoyed the book overall: it was parts poignant, light-hearted, moving and fun.
August 27, 2018
I really enjoyed this book!! I read this via audiobook on Scribd, with Ian Harding narrating himself!! I’m a huge fan of Pretty Little Liars, especially Ezra being an English teacher - so of course I had to this pick up! But I was quite surprised!! I never knew he was a bird watcher, and it was so interesting to read and learn about why bird watching is so special to Ian! I also loved the story of how he got on PLL :)
February 4, 2019
Excellent book, I am a bird lover. When I am in the woods or outside anywhere, I swear that the birds speak to me. Haha, that sounds odd but I am in love with birds, I suppose I hope that they love me. If you are interested in birds, read this one. It is written by an actor and he does share his about his background and life but he infuses his adventures and love for birds.
June 19, 2017
Great book inside his love for birding as well as his life growing up to wrapping up PLL. Loved the stories he included along with the pictures. Makes me want to learn more about birds.
June 3, 2021
Funnier than I was expecting.
June 16, 2017
A fun, easy read. Ian seems like a really cool guy and it was nice to hear him outside of his character on PLL. If you're a fan of Ezra Fitz, this book is for you. It's also the perfect coping method for the end of the PLL series!
August 22, 2017
A surprisingly fun and refreshing read - Ian Harding's writing is fresh and original, and really succeeds in showing the light, human sides of the celebrities we know.
September 7, 2020
September 2020: 4th time reading Odd Birds
This was my first time reading this book since I met Ian last year. My book is signed now and it feels so surreal reading these words now that I’ve talked to Ian in person.
This was also my last year reading it as a teenager...
But needless to say I still absolutely love this book!
See you next year!
______________________________________________________________
Update 2019:
I’ve been reading this book every September since it came out which makes this my third time reading it.
I still adore it and it’s just the perfect book for me to read in September, when the start of the new year at school is approaching.
Being about to start freshman year of uni, the experience was kinda different. I put page markers in last year (How has it been a year already? I remember it like it was yesterday.) but I noticed that I spotted lots of other phrases that really got me thinking, most of them having something to do with the future and careers and the pursuit of happiness that is connected to those two things.
Odd Birds never fails make me envision the surroundings Ian Harding takes us to. I really want to travel to all the places he goes as he describes them in such a calm, reassuring way that I just want to hide out there forever. But on the other hand I have such a clear and detailed view of these places in my head that I might be gutted to see them look any differently.
If I ever become famous and decide to write a book about my life, I hope I can come up with an idea equally as awesome and original as Ian did.
I’m meeting Ian in December for German Comic Con in Dortmund and I couldn’t be more excited to get the opportunity to thank him for this amazing book (and get it signed!).
Here’s to the many Septembers to come cause I’ll be reading Odd Birds - you can count me in on that!
———————————————————————————
2017:
I love this book so much, I just want to keep on reading forever. I mean seriously, why is this book so short? If Ian Harding ever writes another book... count me in, I'm gonna read it!
I really loved all of the stories he shared in the book and he managed to make birding look extremely interesting.
The feeling of reading this book was similar to some kind of mediation for me and I just wanted to jump right into the events.
If you're looking for a ton of backstage information on PLL this isn't the right book for you.
Sure, Ian talks about PLL a few times but it's more about his feelings and thoughts and his relationships with the other actors than about "A" or the liars.
"Odd Birds" offers a the reader a new side to Ian and it was so much fun reading about the way he thinks of life.
5/5 stars, I loved it so, so much and I recommend it to anyone wanting to get caught up in a very thoughtful book with a lot of nature and bird references.
This was my first time reading this book since I met Ian last year. My book is signed now and it feels so surreal reading these words now that I’ve talked to Ian in person.
This was also my last year reading it as a teenager...
But needless to say I still absolutely love this book!
See you next year!
______________________________________________________________
Update 2019:
I’ve been reading this book every September since it came out which makes this my third time reading it.
I still adore it and it’s just the perfect book for me to read in September, when the start of the new year at school is approaching.
Being about to start freshman year of uni, the experience was kinda different. I put page markers in last year (How has it been a year already? I remember it like it was yesterday.) but I noticed that I spotted lots of other phrases that really got me thinking, most of them having something to do with the future and careers and the pursuit of happiness that is connected to those two things.
Odd Birds never fails make me envision the surroundings Ian Harding takes us to. I really want to travel to all the places he goes as he describes them in such a calm, reassuring way that I just want to hide out there forever. But on the other hand I have such a clear and detailed view of these places in my head that I might be gutted to see them look any differently.
If I ever become famous and decide to write a book about my life, I hope I can come up with an idea equally as awesome and original as Ian did.
I’m meeting Ian in December for German Comic Con in Dortmund and I couldn’t be more excited to get the opportunity to thank him for this amazing book (and get it signed!).
Here’s to the many Septembers to come cause I’ll be reading Odd Birds - you can count me in on that!
———————————————————————————
2017:
I love this book so much, I just want to keep on reading forever. I mean seriously, why is this book so short? If Ian Harding ever writes another book... count me in, I'm gonna read it!
I really loved all of the stories he shared in the book and he managed to make birding look extremely interesting.
The feeling of reading this book was similar to some kind of mediation for me and I just wanted to jump right into the events.
If you're looking for a ton of backstage information on PLL this isn't the right book for you.
Sure, Ian talks about PLL a few times but it's more about his feelings and thoughts and his relationships with the other actors than about "A" or the liars.
"Odd Birds" offers a the reader a new side to Ian and it was so much fun reading about the way he thinks of life.
5/5 stars, I loved it so, so much and I recommend it to anyone wanting to get caught up in a very thoughtful book with a lot of nature and bird references.
July 22, 2017
This book was surprisingly not bad! In fact, it was just fine, leaving me to give it a final rating of 2.5 stars.
I didn’t know much about Pretty Little Liars and had never heard of Ian Harding until sometime last year when this book popped up in my periphery because of work. It seemed to be about a young guy (albeit white) who was into birding, which is somewhat unusual since when you usually think of birders (if you think of them at all…) you think of older white folks. So if this book will help get a few young people into birds, then good for it and good for Ian Harding.
The book is composed of essays that take us through Harding’s (admittedly short so far, and in my opinion not super interesting) life, but he does it through the lens of seeing different birds. I haven’t read too many celebrity memoirs but I think that makes this book unusual.
I did get to meet Harding, again because of work, and he was as charming and nice as you could imagine. We did some social media promotion around it and that was quite an experience. His fans are… passionate seems to be not strong enough a word. But again, if this book gets even a few people interested in birds and conservation, then that’s terrific.
I didn’t know much about Pretty Little Liars and had never heard of Ian Harding until sometime last year when this book popped up in my periphery because of work. It seemed to be about a young guy (albeit white) who was into birding, which is somewhat unusual since when you usually think of birders (if you think of them at all…) you think of older white folks. So if this book will help get a few young people into birds, then good for it and good for Ian Harding.
The book is composed of essays that take us through Harding’s (admittedly short so far, and in my opinion not super interesting) life, but he does it through the lens of seeing different birds. I haven’t read too many celebrity memoirs but I think that makes this book unusual.
I did get to meet Harding, again because of work, and he was as charming and nice as you could imagine. We did some social media promotion around it and that was quite an experience. His fans are… passionate seems to be not strong enough a word. But again, if this book gets even a few people interested in birds and conservation, then that’s terrific.
Want to read
May 21, 2017**I won this book from a first reads giveaway and I'm looking forward to reading and reviewing it soon**
I can't believe after not winning anything for over a year I win this.... haha
I can't believe after not winning anything for over a year I win this.... haha
July 28, 2022
4.5 First off, I had to look up who Ian Harding is. Never saw an episode of Pretty Little Liars. Not a big TV watcher. So I didn't have any pre-conceived notions about him. But I really like him. Quite the cutie pie. Very entertaining narrative. Each page was fun to read.
Now. That said, Mr. Harding...okay, after reading this, I feel we're on a first name basis. "Ian" puts himself out there and gives us insight into his family/personal life, his professional career as an actor, and how his interest in birding/ornithology all intertwines from his point of view in his book, "Odd Birds." Not going to go into the story line - I'm sure others have already done that plenty. But I will tell you that I learned a heckuva lot about birds (and the life of an actor). I mean, the lead singer of The Wallflowers is Bob Dylan's son! How did I miss that?! I'm from Minnesota, by God! Anyhow, Ian's right. One Headlight sticks in your head. Ah, Ian has an awesome ability to connect with the reader. The guy has fabulous social skills.
My husband loves birds. So does my son. They both have all these bird feeders that they're constantly filling - even when it's 40 below and a blizzard is a-brewing. Especially when a blizzard is a-brewing. Woodduck houses, you name it. We have birds all over. BUT- none - or rarely - those birds that Ian talks about. It took me some time to read the book because I had to look up every dang bird and see it for myself. That's probably the one thing that would have made this book better, to have colored photos of the different birds. I've never even heard of these birds - and they're amazing. I don't know how Ian - or Walter - or my husband, for that matter, pull out of their butts all the trivia about these birds. I always have to have a bird book and that only tells you so much. But I get the excitement of spying a bird that is rare to you. I just got back from a "Sister's Trip" with my sisters, to northern Minnesota. As I live furthest south, seeing a pair of loons had me softly walking down the dock and waiting as they floated closer and closer to me, hoping that they would get close enough to take a photo. One of my sisters comes barreling down the steps, yelling, "What are ya doing?!" "There are LOONS!" "What?! Oh! Pfft!" Ugh. Yeah, Ian, I get it. I don't get the "Pfft" people.
Anyhow. I think a trip to High Island is in order. Fun book to read! Thanks, Ian!
Now. That said, Mr. Harding...okay, after reading this, I feel we're on a first name basis. "Ian" puts himself out there and gives us insight into his family/personal life, his professional career as an actor, and how his interest in birding/ornithology all intertwines from his point of view in his book, "Odd Birds." Not going to go into the story line - I'm sure others have already done that plenty. But I will tell you that I learned a heckuva lot about birds (and the life of an actor). I mean, the lead singer of The Wallflowers is Bob Dylan's son! How did I miss that?! I'm from Minnesota, by God! Anyhow, Ian's right. One Headlight sticks in your head. Ah, Ian has an awesome ability to connect with the reader. The guy has fabulous social skills.
My husband loves birds. So does my son. They both have all these bird feeders that they're constantly filling - even when it's 40 below and a blizzard is a-brewing. Especially when a blizzard is a-brewing. Woodduck houses, you name it. We have birds all over. BUT- none - or rarely - those birds that Ian talks about. It took me some time to read the book because I had to look up every dang bird and see it for myself. That's probably the one thing that would have made this book better, to have colored photos of the different birds. I've never even heard of these birds - and they're amazing. I don't know how Ian - or Walter - or my husband, for that matter, pull out of their butts all the trivia about these birds. I always have to have a bird book and that only tells you so much. But I get the excitement of spying a bird that is rare to you. I just got back from a "Sister's Trip" with my sisters, to northern Minnesota. As I live furthest south, seeing a pair of loons had me softly walking down the dock and waiting as they floated closer and closer to me, hoping that they would get close enough to take a photo. One of my sisters comes barreling down the steps, yelling, "What are ya doing?!" "There are LOONS!" "What?! Oh! Pfft!" Ugh. Yeah, Ian, I get it. I don't get the "Pfft" people.
Anyhow. I think a trip to High Island is in order. Fun book to read! Thanks, Ian!
August 26, 2022
There is a lot more about birds than I thought there would be in this book!
I have read a significant amount of celebrity autobiographies. Prior to reading this, I would say my favorite was probably Trevor Noah's, a moving tale of apartheid in South Africa. I'm a little wistful to say it, but alas, the truth must be told. Ian has moved Mr. Noah out of the top spot and this place takes the long-coveted spot as The Best Celebrity Biography I Have Ever Read.
There's birds! A beautiful chapter about Keegan Allan and his fear of snakes! Extensive discussion of two guys named John and Walter! And of course there's a myriad of trivia and insight into Pretty Little Liars, objectively the best teen TV show in circulation, and marred only by the horrifically romanticized abusive relationship between Ian's character and Lucy Hale's character. And yet, Ian's sheer and unbridled disgust of the character he played and the toxicity he allowed to be romanticized served as something of a redemption arc - not for the character, but for my enjoyment of the show. "See?" I can say now, with triumph, "Ian Harding is innocent, more or less!", to an audience who is not in fact waiting to hear my thoughts on Pretty Little Liars. And yet. The book does not exactly read as an apology; it doesn't ask for forgiveness. Indeed, his discussion of the show is only part of a more overarching story. But it lies things bare in a way I didn't expect. In a black and white world where PLL is most certainly sliding into cancelable territory, the nuance Harding brings to playing an objectively evil character while being portrayed as a hero was fascinating to read.
Overall, this is a lighthearted, eloquently written story about birds, family, and the making of shocking television. It's written with a sense of ease and comes from a place of wonder and curiosity. I learned a lot about different kinds of birds while reading it. While the metaphors connecting the migratory patterns of birds with the life of an actor didn't always exactly land, even the tenuous connections made me smile. Five stars for some really lovely, touching work that came from a very unexpected place.
I have read a significant amount of celebrity autobiographies. Prior to reading this, I would say my favorite was probably Trevor Noah's, a moving tale of apartheid in South Africa. I'm a little wistful to say it, but alas, the truth must be told. Ian has moved Mr. Noah out of the top spot and this place takes the long-coveted spot as The Best Celebrity Biography I Have Ever Read.
There's birds! A beautiful chapter about Keegan Allan and his fear of snakes! Extensive discussion of two guys named John and Walter! And of course there's a myriad of trivia and insight into Pretty Little Liars, objectively the best teen TV show in circulation, and marred only by the horrifically romanticized abusive relationship between Ian's character and Lucy Hale's character. And yet, Ian's sheer and unbridled disgust of the character he played and the toxicity he allowed to be romanticized served as something of a redemption arc - not for the character, but for my enjoyment of the show. "See?" I can say now, with triumph, "Ian Harding is innocent, more or less!", to an audience who is not in fact waiting to hear my thoughts on Pretty Little Liars. And yet. The book does not exactly read as an apology; it doesn't ask for forgiveness. Indeed, his discussion of the show is only part of a more overarching story. But it lies things bare in a way I didn't expect. In a black and white world where PLL is most certainly sliding into cancelable territory, the nuance Harding brings to playing an objectively evil character while being portrayed as a hero was fascinating to read.
Overall, this is a lighthearted, eloquently written story about birds, family, and the making of shocking television. It's written with a sense of ease and comes from a place of wonder and curiosity. I learned a lot about different kinds of birds while reading it. While the metaphors connecting the migratory patterns of birds with the life of an actor didn't always exactly land, even the tenuous connections made me smile. Five stars for some really lovely, touching work that came from a very unexpected place.
May 9, 2017
When I learned that Ian Harding was coming out with a book of his own, I knew I had to read it. I have seen Pretty Little Liars, but have not seen every episode. But every episode I happened to watch had the handsome Ezra in it. His acting abilities are extraordinary and captivating. He continues to soar to new levels. Odd Birds was raw, witty, and educational on so many levels that will leave readers feeling fascinated and entertained.
Ian Harding was so open with this book. He let us into his life growing up, his life as an actor, his passion for bird watching, and learning to be himself in a world that is constantly being judgmental. Many people like to criticize actors and famous people for being materialistic, but Ian proves that there is more in life than expensive things. His passion for life and nature really shines with his love for birds being at the forefront. I learned so much about birds and got an amazing perspective from Ian on how he saw them. He noticed everything from their appearance, calling sounds, environment. Ian tied in his knowledge about birds and made them apart of his life. Different birds were part of different memories in his life. It was truly beautiful to hear his stories about his grandparents and their connection to specific birds..
For all you PLL fans, you will not be disappointed. Again, Ian is so open about his relationship with his co-stars and even talks about meeting and auditioning with Lucy Hale. He takes you behind the scenes of his life while working on the show and it's not all glamorous. He reminds us that beauty is pain lol I really enjoyed his honesty when it came to PLL. He went in depth about his thoughts on being on the show and the show coming to an end.
Odd Birds was hard to put down. If anything, this book gives you an appreciation for nature. I found myself looking for birds when i was outdoors and it wasn't something I normally did. Ian made this book fun and fresh and wrote it in a way that makes you feel all emotions. Bravo, Ian!
Ian Harding was so open with this book. He let us into his life growing up, his life as an actor, his passion for bird watching, and learning to be himself in a world that is constantly being judgmental. Many people like to criticize actors and famous people for being materialistic, but Ian proves that there is more in life than expensive things. His passion for life and nature really shines with his love for birds being at the forefront. I learned so much about birds and got an amazing perspective from Ian on how he saw them. He noticed everything from their appearance, calling sounds, environment. Ian tied in his knowledge about birds and made them apart of his life. Different birds were part of different memories in his life. It was truly beautiful to hear his stories about his grandparents and their connection to specific birds..
For all you PLL fans, you will not be disappointed. Again, Ian is so open about his relationship with his co-stars and even talks about meeting and auditioning with Lucy Hale. He takes you behind the scenes of his life while working on the show and it's not all glamorous. He reminds us that beauty is pain lol I really enjoyed his honesty when it came to PLL. He went in depth about his thoughts on being on the show and the show coming to an end.
Odd Birds was hard to put down. If anything, this book gives you an appreciation for nature. I found myself looking for birds when i was outdoors and it wasn't something I normally did. Ian made this book fun and fresh and wrote it in a way that makes you feel all emotions. Bravo, Ian!
February 7, 2018
When I was 11 years old, I read the Pretty Little Liars books and fell in love for the first time with Ezra Fitz. I fell in love with him for the second time when I was 13 years old and the show started airing. Ian Harding since then has a special place in my heart.
When I heard about his book I knew that I'd read it eventually and when I heard that he was coming to New York City the time I was in town, I knew I had to get the book, as well as an autograph and a picture.
He was lovely, exactly the way I imagined him to be and exactly how he seems to be in the book. Really down to earth.
His way of writing is simple but in the most beautiful way. His sense of humour made me laugh out loud several times and never failed to bring a smile to my face. The way he is writing about his passion, about the birds, is heartwarming and thoroughly true.
I can highly recommend this but not just to fans of the show (which makes it even more special, since he is talking about his auditions and time on set, as well as free time spent with his co stars now and then) but also to everyone who just wants to read a light book about a down to earth, kind of quirky (in the best way) and passionate young actor, that will definitely lighten up your mood.
4,5/5 stars from me.
"The thing about uncharted territory is, once you get there, it just becomes familiar terrain."
"It's similar to the pain you experience when reading a book that had really moved you. You feel the pages thinning as you near the back cover. You love the book, so you want to keep reading, but you know that the more you read the closer you are to being finished, to not getting to read that book for the first time again."
"I think the secret to a happy life is to keep moving, to keep trying to do the things you love. And maybe – just maybe, if you're really lucky – while you're out there flying and flapping for years, you'll see some pretty incredible things."
When I heard about his book I knew that I'd read it eventually and when I heard that he was coming to New York City the time I was in town, I knew I had to get the book, as well as an autograph and a picture.
He was lovely, exactly the way I imagined him to be and exactly how he seems to be in the book. Really down to earth.
His way of writing is simple but in the most beautiful way. His sense of humour made me laugh out loud several times and never failed to bring a smile to my face. The way he is writing about his passion, about the birds, is heartwarming and thoroughly true.
I can highly recommend this but not just to fans of the show (which makes it even more special, since he is talking about his auditions and time on set, as well as free time spent with his co stars now and then) but also to everyone who just wants to read a light book about a down to earth, kind of quirky (in the best way) and passionate young actor, that will definitely lighten up your mood.
4,5/5 stars from me.
"The thing about uncharted territory is, once you get there, it just becomes familiar terrain."
"It's similar to the pain you experience when reading a book that had really moved you. You feel the pages thinning as you near the back cover. You love the book, so you want to keep reading, but you know that the more you read the closer you are to being finished, to not getting to read that book for the first time again."
"I think the secret to a happy life is to keep moving, to keep trying to do the things you love. And maybe – just maybe, if you're really lucky – while you're out there flying and flapping for years, you'll see some pretty incredible things."
February 9, 2019
The title, Odd Birds, brought me to this book. I do not have a television set, and did not know who Ian Harding is. This is probably to my advantage, as I had never heard of "Pretty Little Liars" and have no curiosity about the program.
This is an audiobook read by the author, who happens to be an actor. His voice is natural and friendly. The earnestness in his voice warms you to his personality. The first mention of birds, are cardinals who appear near his family home and may or may not incarnations of his relatives. I was ready to find out what twists and turns took in his life, and how birds would intersect.
There are bird-watching hikes and trips, sometimes in search of specific birds. I was happy to hear about the expedition to Pinnacles in search of the California Condor. Other locations in the Angeles National Forest were familiar hiking destinations. (If I had come across Moby on the trail, I probably wouldn't have recognized him.)
This book is another way of writing about who we are, how we got to where we are now, and how we look at life. These are universal themes, and how we place ourselves in the world is always unique to ourselves. The bird metaphor that Harding uses works for me. He includes birds that I have grown fond of over the years. I have never seen a California condor, and have seen many turkey vultures, who some call "tvs." I love seeing turkey vultures, maybe a poor stand-in to the condor, still a regal sight when they soar high above you.
The ending mention of pelagic birds touched my heart. I have never been to sea (yet), and have only seen stuffed pelagic birds in natural history museums. Back in the 1960s, my totem Albatross lived in a dimly lit location in the California Academy of Sciences in Golden Gate Park. I would visit this stuffed bird on my way to the entomology department, where I volunteered for a summer. I could only imagine how this wonderful bird had flown many miles without touching land.
This is an audiobook read by the author, who happens to be an actor. His voice is natural and friendly. The earnestness in his voice warms you to his personality. The first mention of birds, are cardinals who appear near his family home and may or may not incarnations of his relatives. I was ready to find out what twists and turns took in his life, and how birds would intersect.
There are bird-watching hikes and trips, sometimes in search of specific birds. I was happy to hear about the expedition to Pinnacles in search of the California Condor. Other locations in the Angeles National Forest were familiar hiking destinations. (If I had come across Moby on the trail, I probably wouldn't have recognized him.)
This book is another way of writing about who we are, how we got to where we are now, and how we look at life. These are universal themes, and how we place ourselves in the world is always unique to ourselves. The bird metaphor that Harding uses works for me. He includes birds that I have grown fond of over the years. I have never seen a California condor, and have seen many turkey vultures, who some call "tvs." I love seeing turkey vultures, maybe a poor stand-in to the condor, still a regal sight when they soar high above you.
The ending mention of pelagic birds touched my heart. I have never been to sea (yet), and have only seen stuffed pelagic birds in natural history museums. Back in the 1960s, my totem Albatross lived in a dimly lit location in the California Academy of Sciences in Golden Gate Park. I would visit this stuffed bird on my way to the entomology department, where I volunteered for a summer. I could only imagine how this wonderful bird had flown many miles without touching land.
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