Two great New Zealand bird books

Studying New Zealand native birds? Children will love reading Irene Swadling's new bird legends, and then draw their own birds following Heather Arnold's step by step guide.

New Legends of Aotearoa New Zealand birds.

How did fantails become so happy and chirpy? Why are there three types of NZ parrots? These original stories, by Irene Swadling, illustrated by Peter Campbell, (published by Reed, 2006) are not the Maori legends we know and love...but they could be. Clear vibrant illustrations enhance this book which could be shared with younger classes, or read independently by most middle school students. At the back there is a glossary of (between three and ten) words and phrases used in every story.

This could be used for study of New Zealand native birds, how legends explain natural phenomena, and to encourage use of Te Reo. Take a look at the Jabberwocky Children's Bookshop review here

- Lynn, PN.


Draw New Zealand Birds. A step by step guide

This intriguing book, by Heather Arnold, (published by Reed, 2007) showing how to draw nine of New Zealand’s native birds will captivate any budding young artist. Each bird is introduced by describing where it lives, its feeding and breeding activities.

This is followed by a colour photograph of the bird, so you can see what each bird looks like, then 4 detailed drawing steps to achieve a finished drawing.

In addition there are four information panels throughout the book. The first one talks about sketching. The other three panels show the differences between three birds' heads, feathers, and feet depending on where they live and what they eat.

Other topics that are discussed include: Learning to See, Drawing Skills, Design Skills, Techniques, Materials, with a Glossary and Resources at the back.

- Joy, PN