Birds for kids A junior scientist's guide to owls, eagles, penguins, and other bird species

In this attractive bird book for young readers, Mayntz introduces them warmly to the f ield, saying that, regardless of age, people who study birds are called ornithologists. And she concludes by adding, "Congratulations, . . . you're now a Junior Ornithologist!" Illustrated with helpful drawings and photos, the first third of the book offers a good, basic introduction to birds as well as how they differ from other animals and from one another. For example, while all birds have wings, not all can fly. The topics covered in this section include birds' physical features, varied habitats, diets, migration, nest-building, and care of their young. In the book's second section, "Birds up Close," each page introduces one species in a paragraph of text and a fact chart, illustrated with a close-up color photo of a single bird. Many of the species featured will be local to North American bird lovers, but a few that live elsewhere, such as ostriches, are included as well. With its eye-catching cover photo, uncluttered page design, and clearly presented information, this book provides an appealing introduction to birds.