My Book of Birds

In an elegant homage to birds, Valério uses cut-paper collage to create delicately crafted scenes that imbue his subjects with energy and individuality. The large trim size keeps the artwork front and center, though Valério also describes each bird in clear and lively passages: “Great Horned Owls are birds of the night. They have sharp hearing and can see well in the dark, which makes them excellent hunters.” With their clean, geometric layering and bold presence, the images often evoke the iconography of Mayan, Inuit, and other indigenous art, as well as the work of Charley Harper. It’s an inviting combination of information and artistry that subtly encourages readers to observe and reflect on bird life. Ages 5–up. (Apr.)