In spare and graceful words, poet and birder Michael J. Rosen captures the forecasting call of the mysterious cuckoo as well as essential characteristics of more than twenty commonly seen North American birds. This artfully compiled book, enriched by the artwork of watercolorist Stan Fellows, captures the excitement of recognizing a bird, whether a darting kingfisher, a wandering wild turkey, or a chirpy house sparrow.

Spring: Eastern bluebird Canada goose American goldfinch Northern cardinal American crow Ruby-throated hummingbird Mourning dove Summer: Chimney swift Belted kingfisher Barred owl Great blue heron Pileated woodpecker

Northern mockingbird Common grackle Autumn: Cedar waxwing White-breasted nuthatch European starling American robin Black-billed cuckoo Winter: Dark-eyed junco Wild turkey Blue jay House sparrow Purple finch.