Omnibird An avian investigator's handbook

Review by Booklist Review

Chances are good that there's a bird nearby right now, but they're so ubiquitous that they can sometimes go unnoticed. Luckily, Omnibird sets out to prove that just because something is ordinary doesn't mean it isn't also extraordinary. Included here are detailed hints for investigative strategies for viewing birds, even if they're far away (this sometimes involves hilarious instructions on bird imitations, for readers so inclined). There are in-depth depictions of bird anatomy, songs, behaviors, and, yes, even droppings and pellets, but these aren't dry discussions; they're all tinged with cheeky humor and outlandish captions, providing a brilliant balance of entertainment and education. What other birding books include sections called "How to Pick Up a Chicken" and "Under-represented Bird's-Eye-Views," including what a chick would see while hatching out of an egg? Amusing artwork ranges from comical cartoon stylings to surprisingly effective lifelike renderings and gives a marvelous sense of scale and personality. An unconventional and irresistible avian introduction, sure to delight any fledgling birder.

From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.

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Review by School Library Journal Review

Gr 3--6--A silly and fun-loving look at what makes our feathered friends one of the most interesting and distinct specimens in the animal kingdom. Full of information, colorful cartoonlike illustrations, and cheerfully irreverent asides, this reference book will appeal to young and old alike. The text is conventional typeface, but any messages to young investigators from illustrations and diagrams (as well as the occasional sarcastic avian remark) look handwritten, as if notes were taken throughout. The two beginning chapters focus on viewing birds in their natural habitats (always cautioning readers not to get too close), basic avian anatomy (feet shape, feathers), and other aspects of life as a bird (how an egg is formed, nest building). The latter half of the book focuses on individual bird types (ducks, owls, parrots) to build on the knowledge obtained in earlier chapters and show examples. Back matter includes an index and a quirky question--"If you could be any bird in the world?"--that will lead to a lively classroom discussion. VERDICT Great for fans of Annette LeBlanc Cate's Looking Up! Birdwatching in Your Own Backyard, this is a delightful addition to any library as an introduction to ornithology.--Jessica Durham

(c) Copyright Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

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Review by Kirkus Book Review

A charming oversize field guide that aims to transform young readers into "omnibird" detectives, encouraging them to investigate the fascinating world of birds through observation and deduction. New Zealander Clarkson presents birding as an engaging mystery-solving adventure and introduces the concept of an "omnibird"--a universal bird template that helps readers identify and understand any species they encounter. The approach is refreshingly practical, moving beyond simple identification to explore bird behavior, anatomy, and ecology. What sets this guide apart is its perfect balance of scientific accuracy and playful humor. Clarkson's colorful illustrations are particularly effective, combining detailed anatomical diagrams with whimsical touches--from cartoon speech bubbles revealing what birds might be thinking to amusing visual comparisons (like the fact thatT. rex was an ancestor of modern birds). The substantial "Notes From 18 Investigations" section covers everything from duck behavior to owl anatomy, while practical "How To" sections will help hone concrete skills like spotting fledglings, holding chickens, and helping a bird find its way back outdoors. The book's detective framework cleverly reframes birding as puzzle-solving rather than memorization, making it equally appealing to dedicated young ornithologists and reluctant nature observers. The thick, durable paper and eco-friendly vegetable ink printing enhance the detailed, delightful illustrations while demonstrating a genuine commitment to environmental values--a perfect complement to its nature-focused mission. A truly stellar work that will delight bird enthusiasts while converting the ambivalent into eager avian investigators. (index)(Nonfiction. 8-13) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.

Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.

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