Look Up!: Bird-Watching In Your Own Backyard (2013) - Plot & Excerpts
Ok so I saw that this and that is won the Robert F. Sibert award, and my first two thoughts were bird watching? isn't that boring for kids, what's the point. If you've read the book you know the second page is "oh I know what you're think bird-watching is NOT boring!" and the third is "the point is..." I love it when the author reads my mind. More to the point I love how much this book focuses on making kids no matter where they live or what their lives are like, more aware of their environment. Birds are one thing that are guaranteed to be everywhere and the book challenges kids to be aware and work to understand their environment. I really liked this, not sure how I will use it, but very good Filled with interesting snippets about birds and tiny sketches of their various features, this book sparkles with passion for its topic. If this one doesn't make bird lovers out of its readers, I don't know what will. It's funny, practical, and debunks many assumptions about the stodgy and uncool nature of birders. As the author points out repeatedly, it isn't necessary to travel or buy expensive equipment to watch birds. All you really need is some time and patience, and you will identify plenty of birds right in your own backyard. One of the best parts of the book is how the author even points out that city dwellers have just as much a chance to see birds as those in rural areas if they simply pay attention. I smiled as I read every page since there was something funny to note at every turn, even a Sparrow Field Mark Fashion Show in which some onlookers are jealous of the sparrows' markings or natural beauty. This one is a keeper for a science class--or for a budding ornithologist.
What do You think about Look Up!: Bird-Watching In Your Own Backyard (2013)?
2014 Sibert Honorexcellent and fun book for young bird watchers. possibility for SRP 2014
—melly1333
This is an excellent example of a nonfiction book that children will love.
—LunaSmokepaws
Fun and easy intro to birdwatching. Non-threatening.
—Bubby
