Bird Talk: What Birds Are Saying and Why

With humor and sensitivity, Judge translates the secret language of birds, both verbal and nonverbal, that they use to attract mates, communicate with partners or offspring, and thwart predators. “I have the most experience. I’ll make the best mate,” says the male American robin through the hundreds of different songs that he sings; a palm cockatoo, “a regular one-man hard-rock band,” whistles and bangs a stick against a tree to deliver the message, “Stay away! This is my tree”; and a flamingo parent urges its chick to break out of the egg. Set against matte white backdrops, Judge’s illustrations are simultaneously naturalistic and joyful, pairing well with her storyteller’s flair. Appended pages share additional information about each of the birds. Ages 6–9. (Mar.)