A very interesting study of Corvids, or the Crow family, and how their thought processes are so similar to humans. I enjoyed the anecdotal stories of crows and ravens contributed by individuals. The authors cover the cultural significance of the raven and crow in writings and in various cultures throughout history. This book brought back fond memories of a childhood summer of "Oscar", a pet crow of a neighborhood kid. Oscar would delight me and my sister by flying up to our bedroom window, peck on the glass to wake us up to come down and play, and then ride on the handlebars of our bikes. It was great to learn more about these amazing animals. I can say I enjoyed the general parts of this book. It wasn't what I thought it would be from reading the summary. It's a well-written book, but contains sections that are highly research-y. I was interested in the general information and anecdotes about the crows and other corvids. And those parts were very, very enjoyable and informing. The author shows the many sides of the personalities and intelligence of corvids. They are really birds to be admired.The other parts of the book, which were interspersed in the chapters, were highly scientific and anatomical--explaining the hows and whys of the crow behavior and the crow's brain. And for people with an interest in that subject area, I'm sure it was very interesting. It was just too detailed for me.But, all in all, an enjoyable book about a bird we probably don't give much thought to these days, one that a lot of people probably still consider to be a pest or a bad omen, and yet a very fascinating animal and one to be admired in many ways. And after reading about how smart corvids are, to be called a birdbrain would be a compliment!
What do You think about Gifts Of The Crows (2013)?
A bit technical but supplemented with adequate stories that helped me stay interested.
—janet
Corvids are freaking smart. And have culture. And tool using capacity. Respect.
—kaylaj0e
