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  • Published: 15 April 2025
  • ISBN: 9780593488584
  • Imprint: RHUS Children's Books
  • Format: Hardback
  • Pages: 40
  • RRP: $45.00

Birdlore

The Iridescent Life of Florence Merriam Bailey





From the author of Shark Lady comes the true story of Florence Merriam Bailey, the groundbreaking scientist who inspired a nation to take up bird-watching and worked tirelessly to protect our feathered friends.

From the author of Shark Lady comes the true story of Florence Merriam Bailey, the groundbreaking scientist who inspired a nation to take up bird-watching and worked tirelessly to protect our feathered friends.

Before Florence, there was no such thing as "bird-watching". Bright plumes on lady's hats were all the rage, but no one was climbing trees or wading through marsh-grass to spot the birds they came from. Even scientists studied birds in labs instead of outside in their natural habitat.

But Florence changed all that. A bird-lover since childhood, she wanted to show the world what made these creatures special. She wanted everyone to care as much as she did, and so she taught classes, printed pamphlets, and eventually began leading bird walks so people could see it with their own eyes. Over time, they did see! With hard work and perseverence, Florence changed the way we look at birds, inspiring millions to follow in her footsteps on bird walks of their own.

With gorgeous illustrations by award-winning artist Devon Holzwarth (Listen), Florence's story takes flight in soaring spreads that capture her inquisitive spirit and passionate advocacy for our feathered friends, a legacy that lives on to this day.

  • Published: 15 April 2025
  • ISBN: 9780593488584
  • Imprint: RHUS Children's Books
  • Format: Hardback
  • Pages: 40
  • RRP: $45.00

Praise for Birdlore

Praise for Jess Keating:
“You haven’t seen amazing non-fiction writing if you have not read Pink is for Blobfish by Jess Keating” —Pernille Ripp, Creator of the Global Read Aloud

Praise for Devon Holzwarth
* "This powerful intergenerational story is enhanced by stunning art…  remarkable in every way." —School Library Journal (starred review of Tia Fortuna's New Home)

"Expressive swirls of vibrant colors throughout evoke the sounds Evelyn’s body feels and the beautiful music she creates in return.” —Booklist (review of Listen)