John James Audubon was a boy who loved the out-of-doors more than the in. He was a boy who believed in studying birds in nature, not just from books. And, in the fall of 1804, he was a boy determined to learn if the small birds nesting near his Pennsylvania home really would return the following spring. This book reveals how the youthful Audubon pioneered a technique essential to our understanding of birds. Capturing the early passion of America's greatest painter of birds, this story will leave young readers listening intently for the call of birds large and small near their own homes. AWARDS 2005 -- Boston Author's Club Special Recognition 2005 -- NSTA-CBC Outstanding Science Trade Book 2004 -- NY Public Library, 100 Titles for Reading AUTHOR Jacqueline Davies is the talented author of two novels, as well as picture books. Melissa Sweet is the illustrator of many fine children's books. Reviewers have described her unique mixed-media illustrations as "exuberant," "outstanding," and "a creative delight." For more information about the author and her work, visit www.melissasweet.net. AGES 5-8 years / Kinder - 3rd class

Illustrated by: Melissa Sweet