English / New Zealand
Omnibird. An avian investigator’s handbook
Clarkson, Giselle
(text/illus.)
[Wellington, New Zealand]: Gecko Press, an imprint of Lerner Publishing Group Minneapolis, USA, [2025]. – 92 p.
ISBN 979-8-765670-51-4
Non-fiction | Bird
Reading age: 8+
White Ravens issue: 2026
Have you ever wondered what a caruncle is? Or why some birds poop on their legs? Or how many species of penguins actually live in icy areas? In her large-format handbook for eager birdwatchers, renowned author-illustrator Giselle Clarkson presents answers to these questions and countless others, too. She combines her trademark witty illustrations, ranging from anatomical diagrams to labelled portraits of ordinary and extraordinary avian species to depictions of birds in action, with fascinating feathery facts. By comparing the study of birds to a detective’s investigation and constantly pointing out the parallels between the two, she easily captures the attention of young and older readers alike. The comical scenes and the birds’ own comments in witty speech bubbles make this tongue-in-cheek field guide an informative and entertaining read for all ages. What’s more: It has the potential of turning people who are not (yet) that keen on flying creatures into committed bird enthusiasts. [CS]