Birds

Henkes, Kevin. 2009. BIRDS. Ill. by Laura Dronzek. New York: Greenwillow. ISBN 9780805079401 [Suggested Grade Levels PreK- 1]

REVIEW

In their second collaborative picture book, Kevin Henkes and Laura Dronzek portray birds through the eyes of a child. Every morning, a young girl wakes up to the sound of birds singing through her window. Fascinated by these colorful creatures, she follows their movements throughout the seasons, wishing she could fly with them. Even though the young girl can only admire birds from the ground, she discovers they are connected through their singing.

Henkes’ simple, but evocative, language perfectly captures children’s interest in birds. The text flows well, linking Henkes’ descriptions of birds’ coloring, flight patterns, and seasonal behaviors into a cohesive story. Dronzek’s full-color acrylic illustrations are a beautiful addition to the story. Soft edges and slightly muted colors match the gentle tone of the text. This husband-and-wife team do a brilliant job of combining lyrical storytelling with stunning illustrations to create an enjoyable picture book that is sure to be a favorite with younger audiences.

CONNECTIONS

This gorgeous book would work just as well for a lesson comparing colors and sizes as it would for a bird or animal unit. The illustrations would also make wonderful examples for an art project.

RELATED BOOKS

Other storytime picture books about birds:

Ehlert, Lois. FEATHERS FOR LUNCH. ISBN 9780152009861

Mazzola, Frank. COUNTING IS FOR THE BIRDS. ISBN 9780881069501

Willems, Mo. DON’T LET THE PIGEON DRIVE THE BUS! ISBN 9780786819881

By Kimberly C. Kinnaird