For John James Audubon’s birthday today we have a delightful picture book for the youngest set, Ivy Bird by Tania McCartney and illustrated by Jess Racklyeft.
The story follows Ivy, a creative young girl, as she takes part in a series of fanciful activities, all inspired by birds. Throughout her day Ivy swims and forages and flaps her wings alongside her bird friends.
The illustrations also take the reader on flights of fancy, mixing colors and textures in a rich, complex way.
Regardless of the inventiveness, however, this book falls squarely in the realm of informational fiction. The back matter includes facts about each of the twelve different birds from around the world that are featured in the main text — from bower birds to robins — as well as a challenge to find them in the pages of the story.
Ivy Bird is a fun read-aloud for preschoolers that is sure to spark their imaginations, as well as an interest in learning more about birds.
Activity Suggestion:
Visit the Audobon Society for an extensive list of activities and DIY projects to help birds.
Try some of the activities for observing backyard birds at Growing with Science.
Looking for more books about birds for children? Check our growing list at Science Books for Kids.
Age Range: 3 – 6 years
Publisher: Blue Dot Kids Press (April 7, 2020)
ISBN-10: 1733121218
ISBN-13: 978-1733121217