Have You Heard the Nesting Bird?

Reviewed by: Bernie Alie - Kennebunk Free Library, Kennebunk, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: October 6, 2014

Review

We are introduced to the songs of multiple bird species, with the repeated refrain of "but have you heard the nesting bird" to remind us that this one is quiet. Each page introduces a new species, including a written translation of what their song sounds like, enabling adults to approximate the song for children. The watercolor and digital media art looks as though it is painted on wood. Perspectives change from eye level to above and below the pictured bird. Questions in the back are answered by the robin herself, giving children more information about the nesting process and respecting nests. It is only in these endnotes that we learn of the song of the robin; from the text some children may assume they don't sing at all. Notes on the verso refer readers to the Annenberg Foundation's website to hear the robin call. Although thanked in the credits, it is surprising that the Cornell Lab of Ornithology's website is not referenced, since it includes 592 bird species including most calls. Overall, a great addition to spring storytimes!

Overall Book Score: excellent