Description
The National Audubon Society’s annual Christmas Bird Count stars in this charming picture book, just right for young citizen scientists, bird watchers, and nature aficionados.
“A wonderful introduction to bird-watching and the concept of observing nature… Parents be warned: this book is so appealing that, come next December, you may find yourself out in the cold, counting birds.” ―Booklist Online
For the New England Christmas Bird Count, young Ava and her mother prepare to be the best “citizen scientists” they can be. With the help of their team leader Big Al, they record the tally of all the birds they see. Ava dutifully counts all the birds along the way, using her most important tools―her eyes and ears―and the birding identification techniques she’s learned. But will she locate her favorite raven again this year in time for their town’s annual Christmas Bird Count party?
Author Susan Edwards Richmond introduces young readers to birdwatching with simple explanations of birdwatching techniques and clear descriptions of bird habitats. Stephanie Fizer Coleman’s charming illustrations add color and context to a joyful story that’s sure to inspire the citizen scientist in us all.
Backmatter includes more information about all the birds featured in the book and about the Christmas Bird Count, the nation’s longest-running community science bird project.
Reviews
“Clever design… Count guidelines are smoothly worked into Richmond’s narrative… An engaging, informative introduction. ” —Kirkus Reviews
“An instructive and attractive picture book for aspiring ornithologists and young nature aficionados.” —Publishers Weekly
“Soft, detailed illustrations bring the winter world to life, depict many bird species, and capture the sounds and feelings of a chilly winter day. Readers will love searching for birds along with Ava and her companions…. This book introduces elementary school readers to the world of birds and citizen science in an accessible, welcoming way.” —School Library Journal
“A wonderful introduction to bird-watching and the concept of observing nature… Parents be warned: this book is so appealing that, come next December, you may find yourself out in the cold, counting birds.” —Booklist Online
“This charming and handsomely illustrated story…is accurate in detail, and it wonderfully captures a young person’s enthusiasm.” —Wayne R. Petersen, Director of Massachusetts Important Bird Area (IBA) Program
“Great book on citizen scientists. A must read and should be in all public and elementary school libraries.”—Terry Young, retired librarian and former judge for the AAAS/Subaru Science Books & Films Prize for Excellence in Science Books
Awards
Mathical Book Prize (Honor Book, K-2)—Mathical Sciences Research Institute (MSRI) / CBC / NCTE / NCTM, 2021
Children’s and Young Adult Book Awards (Primary-Fiction)—ILA, 2020
Capitol Choices Noteworthy Books for Children and Teens —Capitol Choices, 2020
Parents’ Choice Silver Honor Award—Parents’ Choice Foundation, 2019
More Details
AR Level: 3.0
F&P: M, Gr 2, Genre RF
Lexile: 550L
Themes: Birds, Bird Watching, Neighbors
BISAC 1: JUV039060 JUVENILE FICTION/Social Themes/Friendship
BISAC 2: JUV029010 JUVENILE FICTION / Nature & the Natural World / Environment
BISAC 3: JUV030060 JUVENILE FICTION / People & Places / United States / General
