“'Count every bird you see or hear … Make sure at least two people see or hear it. And don’t count any bird twice. ’” These are the rules of the Christmas Bird Count, a collective action by citizen scientists that takes place from Canada to Antarctica. Brown-skinned Ava, her mother, and team leader Big Al observe the birds in their area on this cold winter day, recording the type and number that appear: eight goldfinches, three mallards, one great blue heron, and many more. Ava hopes to see a raven—they’re rare, and last year she was disappointed in her search. They drive from stop to stop, keeping their eyes peeled as they go. At the end of the day, the circle chief combines the counts of all ten teams in Ava’s count circle while the citizen scientists enjoy a bonfire together. Young readers inspired to participate in this annual census may benefit from the additional descriptions of the many species spotted by Ava and her team provided in the back of the book. (Ages 5–9)

The National Audubon Society's annual Christmas Bird Count stars in this charming picture book, just right for young community scientists, bird watchers, and nature aficionados.

A young girl and her mother participate as community scientists in the Christmas Bird Count. The girl is excited when Big Al, the leader of their team, asks her to record the tally this year. Using her most important tools―her eyes and ears―she eagerly identifies and counts the birds they observe on their assigned route around town. She and her team follow the rules, noting the time of day, the habitat, the birding ID techniques used for each sighting.

Finally, they meet up with the other teams in the area to combine their totals for a Christmas Bird Count party and share stories about their observations. Sidebars tally up the birds they observe and record. This book introduces young readers to birdwatching with simple explanations of birdwatching techniques and clear descriptions of bird habitats.

Stephanie Fizer Coleman's charming illustrations add color and context to a joyful story that's sure to inspire the nature lover in everyone.

Back matter includes more information about all the birds featured in the book and about the Christmas Bird Count, the nation's longest-running community science bird project.


Capitol Choices Noteworthy Books for Children and Teens
Parents’ Choice Silver Honor Award
Mathical Honor Award
International  Literacy Association Primary Fiction Award