Short listed for the Green Earth book award In early April, as Owen and his sister search the hickories, oaks, and dogwoods for returning birds, a huge group of birds leaves the misty mountain slopes of the Yucatan peninsula for the 600-mile flight across the Gulf of Mexico to their summer nesting grounds. One of them is a Cerulean warbler. He will lose more than half his body weight even if the journey goes well. Aloft over the vast ocean, the birds encourage each other with squeaky chirps that say, “We are still alive. We can do this.” Owen’s family watches televised reports of a great storm over the Gulf of Mexico, fearing what it may mean for migrating songbirds. In alternating spreads, we wait and hope with Owen, then struggle through the storm with the warbler. This moving story with its hopeful ending appeals to us to preserve the things we love. The backmatter includes a North American bird migration map, birding information for kids, and guidance for how native plantings can transform yards into bird and wildlife habitat.

The bestselling natural history of birds, lavishly illustrated with 600 colorphotos, is now available for the first time in flexi binding.

Chester A. Reed's book 'Bird Guide: Land Birds East of the Rockies, from Parrots to Bluebirds' is a comprehensive and detailed guide to avian species found in the eastern United States. Including a wide range of birds from parrots to bluebirds, this book not only provides vivid descriptions and colorful illustrations of each species but also offers valuable information on their habitat, behavior, and migratory patterns. Reed's writing style is both informative and engaging, making it an essential resource for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike. Positioned within the tradition of natural history writing, this book stands out for its meticulous attention to detail and passionate appreciation of the natural world. Chester A. Reed's expertise in ornithology and his love for birds are evident throughout the book, reflecting his lifelong dedication to the study and conservation of avian species. I highly recommend 'Bird Guide' to anyone interested in exploring the diverse world of land birds in the eastern United States, as it is sure to enhance your birdwatching experience and deepen your appreciation for the beauty of nature.

A young wood thrush makes his first migration from his nesting ground in Maryland to his winter home in Costa Rica and back again.