Synopses & Reviews
Celebrating the powerful role of birds in human customs and traditions from around the world and throughout history, this sourcebook explores the delightful stories surrounding some of the worlds best-known birdsincluding the eagle, owl, pelican, falcon, dove, swan, and raven. With topics including folklore, literature, music, dance, and spirituality, this eclectic and enchanting encyclopedia of avianhuman relations is an ideal companion for any bird-lover. Brilliantly illustrated and filled with intriguing research, it illuminates many astonishing aspects of bird life, including their dazzling colors, intricate nest-building habits, finely structured feathers, amazing feats of migration, and breathtakingly beautiful song and movement.
Review
"An almanac-like, slightly eccentric avian anthology, gathering poems, scientific oddments, myths, learned observations, and trivia . . . Readers who enjoy books of bird folklore will find these tales . . . a pleasure." —Washington Post Book World
Review
"Leave it to the English to draw together, in one slim, delightful volume, nearly all that need be said about birds and humans and their long, complex relationship in history, folklore, and literature." —Wall Street Journal
Review
"The perfect bookdelightful material woven together with verve and a charismatic writing style. Researched over a period of many years, this charmingly illustrated almanac belongs, like the birds it describes, to both earth and sky: a balm for the mind." Bettany Hughes, author, Helen of Troy
Review
"Winged Wonders is an extensive and charming history of some of the worlds favorite birds. It gives us an insight into the birds importance in human life, literature, and legend, offering colorful anecdotes and obscure references that clarify things you've wondered about for a long time. . . . A must read for everyone interested in natures role in human history." Christine Goff, author, Birdwatcher's Mystery series
Review
This is a beautiful bookengaging, quirky, and full of pleasant surprises. I have always been a keen bird-watcher, but now I will enjoy it even more.” George Monbiot, author, Manifesto for a New World Order
About the Author
Peter Watkins is an Anglican vicar and the author of several books, including A Book of Animals. Jonathan Stockland is a former deputy director of education at Oxfam and a former consultant to the United Nations.