Beautiful linocut artwork in subdued colors illustrates fourteen different birds from all around the world. Each double page spread features a specific bird and a couple of paragraphs about its habitat and physical features. The pictures are worthy of framing. This book may appeal more to adults than children. ( )

This is one of those absolutely lovely books that I can't really see an audience for at my library but which I want anyways.

Each full spread covers a bird with some interesting quirk, attribute, or behavior with a linocut print of the bird and its habitat. Readers will learn about the Toco Toucan, largest of the toucans, and how it uses its famous beak. Then there's the Greater Bird of Paradise, largest of this beautiful family of birds with a marvelous mating display. Each bird has something that makes it special - the hummingbird, kakapo, or peregrine falcon.

There are two paragraphs of fairly dense text for each bird, some set against colored backgrounds that make it difficult to read. The oversized book features lovely but static prints of the various birds and their habitats. There is no back matter, but there is an acknowledgement of consultation with The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (UK).

This isn't a book for storytime, nor will it appeal to readers who need to research or who are looking for a chapter book. It's more of a coffee-table book really, something for bird-lovers to pore over with their children (if they're patient enough to sit still) or to dip into to learn a little about a favorite bird.

Verdict: A beautiful book, this would make a lovely keepsake or gift for a fan of birds but is less likely to find a home in a library or school.

ISBN: 9781536201697; Published 2018 by Candlewick Studio; Review copy provided by the publisher; Donated to the library