The Magpies' Nest

Rating:
Summary: How Birds Build Their Nests
Review: I was teaching a unit on birds in my elementary classroom and came across this book at the library. I immediately purchased my own copy. The illustrations are wonderful! The author uses an interesting story to tell how birds came to build their nests. The magpies are the "teaching" birds and the others are trying to learn how to build a nest. Just as children do - many of them listen to the first part of the directions and off they go because "they know what they're doing." Most of the birds listen to only part of the instructions, therefore, there are many different kinds of nests being built. This can lead into a terrific discussion of the types of nests that you might have seen. You'll have to read the book to find out about those lazy cowbirds and cuckoos. Anyone who wants to know more about birds and their nests will treasure this delightful book.