May 7, 2006 ~~ I recently purchased The Burgess Bird Book For Children by Thornton W. Burgess thinking this would be a good way to glean some facts about wild birds -- an area in which I sorely lack knowledge. What a surprise when I began reading a chapter to my girls. This is a delightful book for young ones! Instead of just giving a bunch of facts - which younger children don't enjoy listening to-- this book teaches gentle lessons of birds and wildlife.
Mr. Burgess has given life to the wildlife in an interesting dialog of conversation. For example, in chapter 5 Peter Rabbit learns something new about Winsome Bluebird and Welcome Robin. Winsome Bluebird has arrived to welcome in Mistress Spring. Peter adores his two bird friends and is quite surprised when Jenny Wren mentions how much the cousins look alike. Peter didn't realize Winsome and Welcome are cousins, both part of the thrush family! "Tut, tut, tut Peter!" exclaims Jenny Wren. Peter still doubtful goes to ask his two friends if this is true. "Yes" Winsome chuckles. "Welcome and I may not look much alike, but we are cousins just the same. Don't' you think Welcome is looking unusually fine this spring?"
"Not a bit finer than yourself, Winsome," replies Peter....
And so the story continues with an absolutely delightful dialog of these characters. This book is rich in real information and I can't wait to purchase others by Mr. Burgess.
