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The weather is warming, daylight hours are increasing; both signs that spring will soon be here. The following new books will help you make that seasonal transition to the outdoors and the natural wonders that surround us.
"HOW TO READ THE WILDERNESS: An Illustrated Guide to North American Flora and Fauna" by Nature Study Guild (508.7 HO) is a handbook for identifying nature in regions from the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean and extends north and south of the U.S. borders. It is divided into five sections: Trees; Flowers, Fruits, & Ferns; Mammals & Birds; Ocean; and Night Sky. Although the black and white illustrations are reminiscent of older publications, they are detailed enough for quick identification. The guide also provides an updated "if, then" format to redirect readers to another page that may provide more help in identification.
"LAPIDARIUM: The Secret Lives of Stones" by Hettie Judah (553.8 JU) defines itself as a collection of stories about stones -- 60 of them -- housed together in a book. The information is laid out with a detailed drawing of each stone, followed by geological and geographical information, with a hazy strip of color peeking out from where the pages meet. The stories are factual, but very readable, creating a short story experience rather than that of a textbook. Check out your favorite gemstones or how stones are put to use industrially. With a striking cover and artistic layout, this book is a treat.
"MUSHROOMING: An Illustrated guide to the Fantastic, Delicious, Deadly, and Strange World of Fungi" by Diane Borsato (579.6 BO) covers sixty-two varieties of mushrooms with complete physical descriptions, interesting facts, and whether or not each is edible. The large illustrations will help mushroom hunters identify each variety in its habitat. There's information on how mushrooms have been used in foods over the years, but the book is written primarily as a guide to hunt down your own mushrooms. For extra fun, read the chapter about How to Host a Mushroom Foray.
"IN THE NAME OF PLANTS: From Attenborough to Washington" by Sandra Knapp (580.14 KN) clarifies some of the mystique behind thirty-one plant names for grasses, flowers, and ferns from around the world. The author, a research botanist at the Natural History Museum in London, presents structured chapters featuring the common name, scientific name, who the plant was named after, a botanical history, and a detailed illustration or photo of each specimen. Did you know that a southwestern fern was recently named after Lady Gaga?
"100 PLANTS TO FEED THE BIRDS: Turn Your Garden into a Healthy Bird Habitat" by Laura Erickson (598.0723 ER) pairs up regional plants (including trees) with the birds that are attracted to them. Each double-page spread is divided into beautiful photos of the featured plant, companion bird, and a regional map showing their shared habitat. This book is loaded with interesting facts, such as, the common blue violet is a favorite food of wild turkeys. Who knew?
"SLOW BIRDING: The Art and Science of Enjoying the Birds in Your Own Backyard" by Joan E. Strassmann (598.0723 ST) was written by a dedicated birder who wants to share tips on birdwatching from your porches and gardens. Twenty common birds with wide ranges of habitat are covered, including my favorite, the robin. Each chapter features a scientific essay about the bird, accompanied by activities for watching each species. Copious notes and an Index complete the book. Birding is serious business, but brings great enjoyment to those who take the time to participate.
By Lynette Suckow
Reference Librarian