Superlative Birds
by Leslie Bulion
This book is written by an award-winning science poet who teaches all about the award-winners of the bird kingdom, if there was a contest that exists! This contest would have categories like “smallest” or “biggest” bird, but also more bizarre categories like “most-gruesome prey collection,” “biggest loudmouth,” or the “smelliest” bird. It is a witty book with interesting and extraordinary facts that will be appreciated by any curious reader.
Song of the Swallows
by Leo Politi
A Caldecott Medal winner in 1948, this classic book tells the story of the annual return of swallows to the Mission San Juan Capistrano. Julian, the bell ringer, teaches Juan about the swallows. Julian soon becomes enamored with the swallows and looks forward to their return by making a special garden for them to nest near his home. This is a sweet book that also provides a lesson in Latino heritage, Spanish phrases interspersed in the book, and an original song.
A Place for Birds
by Melissa Stewart
This nonfiction book showcases twelve North American birds, including the Great Blue Heron, Eastern Bluebird, Northern Cardinal, Bald Eagle, Piping Plover, and the rare Kirtland’s Warbler. It contains information about how humans can negatively harm these birds with their actions, such as use of DDT and oil spills, but also provides solutions on how to help them, such as dimming lights at night. This book can inspire and encourage youth to make good environmental choices and teach others how they can help as well.
A Youth’s Look at Black and Brown Faces in American’s Wild Places
by Dudley Edmonson
This book is included with the full book recommended below for Adults. Dudley Edmonson hopes to present a set of outdoor role models to young African Americans and regard nature as a safe place for them to explore. He hopes to inspire youth to learn about the environment, share their new knowledge with others, and perhaps go into careers in the outdoors.