Bird: My Pet

Children's Literature - Debra Lampert-Rudman

My Pet Bird is part of a series of "My Pet" books by Weigl Publishers aimed at the 9- to12-year-old reader interested in adding a bird to the family. The sprightly, smiling parakeet on the cover is described as a "budgie" inside. Filled with dynamic photographs of a wide range of birds in flight, on nests, playing with toys and newly born; interesting chapters include "Eating Like a Bird," "From Feathers to Feet," "Life Cycle," "Bird Bath" and "Pet Puzzlers." The "Pet Profiles" two-page spread features photos and descriptions of six birds suitable for the young bird lover and include Cockatiels, Canaries, Conures, Lovebirds, Budgies and Doves. "Pigeon Plight" discusses carrier pigeons used during World War I that helped British and American armies. Answers to questions including "What Can I Afford?," "Will a Bird Be Able to Rely on Me?," and "Is My Home Suitable" are discussed in the "Picking Your Pet" chapter. The "8 Essential Parts of the Bird" are presented in graphic detail in the "From Feathers to Feet" chapter and include some interesting facts on bird anatomy and physiology. The book offers a colorful and graphically appealing overview of bird ownership that will be a good starting point for the child considering adding a bird to the family and may be used in science classes. "More Information" and "Websites" chapters offer opportunities for further study and research and may require assistance. Reviewer: Debra Lampert-Rudman