Bird Count

Gr 3-5–Ava and her mother help with the annual Christmas Bird Count every year, where they join forces with other members of their community to note the birds they see in and around their neighborhood. This year is special: Ava gets to be in charge of keeping track of the birds they see and hear. The data they collect will help scientists understand patterns in the lives of the many birds in the world. Along with their team captain, Big Al, the three embark on a journey of identification and study that culminates in a celebration with other teams in their count circle. Soft, detailed illustrations bring the winter world to life, depict many bird species, and capture the sounds and feelings of a chilly winter day. Readers will love searching for birds along with Ava and her companions. A running tally at the far right side of the pages helps readers keep track of the birds they have seen.