Customer Reviews: Read 7 more reviews...
 Birds June 20, 2008
This is a wonderful book, of interest even to those who never take a pair of binoculars into the woods in the hope of glimpsing a favorite bird. Scott is a literate, knowledgeable, and entertaining writer who navigates deftly through the history of birding in the United States.
Recently we heard him give a talk based on this book--if you have the chance to read or to hear him, don't miss out!
What a storyteller Scott Weidensaul is June 20, 2008
I found as a lover of American history that this book naturally added context to so much history I already knew. Scott Weidensaul wrote a bird watching book for the rest of us. Most books I read, I give away. This book I not only will keep my own copy but I will buy more to give to others which is my highest prize.
Exposing American Ornithology's Roots, Warts and All May 18, 2008
A great synopsis of the personalities at the roots of ornithology in the New World. The author shows us the development of birding in America, from its roots as an amateur avocation to the snobbery of the early professionals and back to the amateur "citizen scientists" birders of the current era. He includes some of the personality clashes and egos of the greats in American birding. A good read for those interested in birding and its history.
 Nice Birding History April 1, 2008
Very interesting book for experienced birders as well as beginners. Learned a number of interesting facts and where all those bird names, like Wilson's Warbler, came from. It was very helpful in preparing to give a talk on the history of birdwatching!
History That Won't Put You To Sleep. January 12, 2008
Scott Weidensaul's brief history is engaging,stylish and personal.From the shotgun birders to dorky Miss Hathaway,to Roger Tory Peterson and his followers,surely NEVER dressed in white- you will find yourself turning pages to learn more.
Weidensaul does what many scientists aren't able to do,and that is, turn his study and work into a work of Art as he sweeps us through centuries and personalities with grace and accuracy.His prose is always clear,but has music to it nevertheless.As always,he is the voice of reason as he shares with us his life and his research.
Painter Who Reads
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