Birds Do the Strangest Things

Step-Up Books

by Arthur Hornblow Leonora Hornblow, Michael Frith (Illustrator)

Describes twenty-two birds with unusual habits or characteristics, including the ostrich, kiwi, honey guide, and hornbill.

Genres: Picture Books, Science, Childrens, Nonfiction, Nature, Birds

70 pages, Library Binding

First published January 1, 1965

Reviews

[Janice Kohl · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting information about different species of birds. It is described as a Step Up book in learning to read but I think it would be difficult for a new reader. The words are harder with plenty of text. Not easy to read aloud in my opinion. But you could tell about the different birds from the information and show the pictures.

Leonora coauthored this book with her husband, Arthur. Interesting Note: Arthur is the movie producer of the film Oklahoma! Other books available in this nature series.

[Tanya · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I was a little girl I had the whole Step-Up set of "Do the Strangest Things" books, and I read them over and over. I remember being amazed when I learned that owls could turn their heads all the way around, and that hummingbirds could beat their wings so quickly. I remember being disappointed that seagulls were "trash" birds, and deciding I was going to like them anyway. I think it's so great to introduce kids to non-fiction.

[Angie · Rating 5 out of 5]

You know it’s a good book when your son (7) cries out, “Oh no! Start again! Start again!” when you turn the final page. I’m going to have to keep an eye out for more of these nonfiction Step-Up books if they are as good as this one was. Super interesting! The girls enjoyed it as well, with Catherine letting me know we needed to give it “Five stars, because I loved it!”

[Margot · Rating 3 out of 5]

One of a series of science books for young children... put out by Step Up Books. Facts about birds discussing the smallest known bird species as well as the largest. Fun and entertaining. Something that would attrack young children, curious about nature.

[Ro · Rating 4 out of 5]

Had some misinformation since it's like 60 years old. I got a real good laugh out of it. Although, I did learn that if bald eagles and barn owls are in the same place together, the barn owl will kill the bald eagle. It will literally kill it.

[Joanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had been eyeing this book for the longest time, and finally got a chance to sit down and read it at work. The choice of birds spans the usual suspects to some unusual ones, the strange tidbits about each bird are sometimes funny, sometimes surprising, but always interesting, and the voice of the author is a treat. I laughed out loud at points, and appreciated that even though I knew a lot of the birds I still learned a lot!

[Luci · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fun read with beautiful illustrations. Best part is my son read the whole thing to me!

[Ashlea Marshall · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the illustrations. The writing was maybe too simplistic, even for children. I did learn some things about birds.

[Mark · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shame book and series of "strangest" animal kingdom books by Leonora Hornblow are out of print. Profusely illustrated, this book is wonderful introduction to weird, bird, species and unknown behaviors and quirks.
Children will consider themselves budding naturalists.

[Joanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

I especially liked reading about the Bower Bird.