Fly: A child’s guide to birds and how to spot them

In the same series as ‘Glow: A child’s guide to the night sky’ and ‘Grow: A first guide to plants and how to grow them’, ‘Fly: A child’s guide to birds and how to spot them’ is another beautifully presented book from Magic Cat which seeks to engage children with the beauty and wonder of the world around them.

David Lindo, the Urban Birder, takes the reader on a journey of discovery, sharing his fascination with birds and seeking to engage the next generation of bird lovers. Each section focuses on an element relating to birds- feathers, wings, migration, various habitats- and introduces a specific bird in relation to this before looking at other birds and adaptations. There is also an ‘around the world’ section in which the author delves into the world of folklore and mythology, showing how cultures across the ages have been inspired by birds.

The book is beautifully presented with a clear introduction to each section, labelled diagrams and fact boxes. A clear glossary supports comprehension of technical terms whilst the contents page allows the reader to both browse for interest and locate specific information. Beautifully illustrated and packed with fascinating information, this book is sure to be a real hit with bird lovers and offer an amazing introduction for those who wish to know more.

Fly: A child’s guide to birds and how to spot them

David Lindo, illustrated by Sara Boccaccini Meadows

Magic Cat    ISBN: 978-1915569295

You can read my review of ‘Glow’ here and ‘The Extraordinary World of Birds’ by David Lindo here.

The Extraordinary World of Birds

David Lindo, also known as The Urban Birder, shares his fascination for birds in this absorbing book about our feathered friends. ‘The Extraordinary World of Birds’ is divided into five sections: What is a bird?; Bird Families; Bird Behaviour; Bird Habitats and Birds and Me. The detailed index is perfect for enabling readers to locate specific information and the glossary explains some of the technical vocabulary used.

The ‘What is a bird?’ section not only explains what birds are, but also offers information about how they fly, the nests they build, their eggs and diet. It also contains a fascinating spread on some record breaking birds, like the peregrine falcon- not only the fastest bird, but the fastest animal in the world.

The next section explains how all of the world’s species of birds can be grouped into different families based on characteristics they share. Packed full of amazing information, there is so much to learn here- and so much to look out for when appreciating the birds around us. The book is illustrated with a mixture of photographs and drawings, making each spread very appealing.

As well as being perfect for children to enjoy at home, there is much here which supports learning in science and geography. Different biomes and habitats are explored as well as adaptations birds have made to survive. The impact of climate change is also considered.

The final section, ‘Birds and Me’, looks at our relationship with these fascinating creatures and what we can do to help them thrive. A spread on birding offers helpful tips to those who might be inspired to give it a go! The book also looks at national birds which countries have adopted, some unofficially.

Sure to inspire an interest in these incredible creatures, ‘The Extraordinary World of Birds’ is a fascinating and informative read.

The Extraordinary World of Birds

David Lindo, illustrated by Claire McElfatrick

DK ISBN: 978-0241529058