A Place for Birds

by Melissa Stewart

Peachtree, 2015

for Ages 5–9

ISBN 978–1‑56145–839‑4 (HC)

ISBN 978–1‑56145–840‑0 (PB)

ISBN 978–1‑68263–544‑5 (PB)

Purchase either of these books at your local independent bookseller or Amazon.com.

This clearly written, richly illustrated introduction to birds and ecology describes the beauty and behavior of birds as well as some of the ways people are protecting birds and their habitats. Pointers on how youngsters can help birds in their own neighborhood are included.

Honors and Awards

Bank Street College Best Children’s Book of the Year
Chicago Public Library Best of the Best, Nature Connections
Children’s Cooperative Book Center Choice
Cornerstone of Science Book Award Nominee
Keystone to Reading Book Award Nominee
National Science Teachers Association Recommended Title
National Science Teachers Association—Children’s Book Council
Outstanding Science Trade Book
Natural History Recommended Title for Budding Scientists
Society of School Librarians International Book Awards, Honor Book

Reviews

“Beautiful illustrations and clear, concise text…a fascinating look at a variety of birds …” (The Science Teacher, starred review)

“An accessible introduction to environmental issues. … The rhythmic main text highlights birds’ needs and what people can do to see that they are met. Insets … provide specific examples to drive the point home. … This format … is effective and engaging … Bond’s acrylic illustrations depict realistic scenes with a crisp vibrancy. Put this one in the hands of budding scientists, environmentalists and nature lovers.” (Kirkus Reviews)

“In the lovely jacket art that graces this book, a bird flies across a cityscape at sunset. The image is appropriate for a book that asks readers to consider the ways in which people’s choices affect the lives of North American birds. … A bibliography is appended. On the end papers, small maps indicate the range of the 24 birds mentioned. With its emphasis on conservation, this is a useful addition to science collections.” (Booklist)

” … an excellent title for all library shelves, as it is fun and educational, with great illustrations and relevant, yet simple information.” (A Patchwork of Books)

“In an attractive picture-book format … Stewart and Bond describe ways that human behavior interferes with bird survival … and suggest simple means of solving each problem. Brief text running across the top of each scene begins with the problem on the left-hand page and states a counter measure on the right; an inset provides [additional] information. … [T]his title will most likely find use in sparking classroom discussion.” (School Library Journal)

“Eleven case histories, illustrated with colorful acrylic paintings, demonstrate the impact of human behavior on the well-being of birds. Problems are accompanied by possible solutions, and the book’s tone is spot on: practical, informed, and optimistic.” (Natural History)

“Beautiful illustrations and clear concise text provide a fascinating look at various birds of North and Central America, the ecosystems that support them, and efforts to save them. Whereas many books document the reduction in biodiversity that has been caused by humans, this book takes a more hopeful and productive stand; building nesting boxes, protecting beach areas, and restoring grassy areas can all help preserve places in which birds thrive.” (National Science Teachers Association)

“… an excellent, encouraging read.” (Virginian-Pilot)

“Although this book is geared toward children, parents and teachers may want to check it out because of the clear quality of writing and outstanding illustrations.” (Library Media Connection)

“Like other books in the series, this combines the best parts of a field guide with engaging stories about environmental concerns facing birds across our country … Another excellent book from this author/illustrator team.” (Ithaca Child)

“ … The information on the various species is equally enticing … The artwork throughout is true to life, rich with detail and natural color …” (Bristol Herald Courier)

Behind the Book

“After the success of A Place for Butterflies, my editor suggested a companion title about birds. I was thrilled with the idea and immediately began searching for stories for the book. My research turned up more than twenty great examples of ways people are protecting birds and preserving their habitats, but I had to whittle them down to eleven. I chose examples from a variety of habitats and geographic areas. I was delighted when Higgins Bond agreed to illustrate the book. Her rich, colorful paintings really catch the beauty and grace of life.”