Do you like birds? Do you like a good story? If so, then proceed to read. The Big Year by Mark Obmascik is a fun read about a real story in humanity’s bird-loving history. Three men, each very different, make an attempt at a “Big Year,” or in other words, a contest to see who can see the most species in North America in one calendar year. This has also been made into a movie with Jack Black, Steve Martin, and Owen Wilson although the movie, as they do, tends to stray from the actual story.
Over twenty-seven million American’s identify as birders so the audience for this book and this movie are solid. I happen to also like birds and do enjoy the odd moment when I can specifically go looking for them. For me, birding is an exploration of my vast and impressive level of ignorance. I can barely name a single bird in my yard let alone those roaming North America. Throw in the strays blown here by El Nino, bad weather, or some other strange event, and my ignorance level expands even further. But I want to know which is why I like this book.
If you enjoy the story of a hunt where the bird is spotted not eliminated, mostly, well then. Get it, read it.
Comments 8
Birding is the #1 sport in the U.S. Maybe the world? I personally do not name, label, or count them… but I always have and always will watch the hell out of ’em.
Author
Tad,
The problem I have, among many, is that I don’t know what I”m looking at. I have to get out the book, flip, flip, flip and hope I’m on the right page. But it is truly fascinating what is out there.
Sounds like a good read! And, happy thanksgiving!
Author
Paul,
Movie is worth it too.
As a Birder I found this movie to be really charming. And of course the book is even better. There are lots of other great books about people getting big ears. One of my recent favorites is Birding without Borders by Noah Strycker which is a world wide birding year.
Author
Kimberly,
This book is on my desk right now. As is Kingbird Highway.
Sorry but this post has quite a few errors the one that made me laugh the most was ears instead if years. If you could edit it I would be grateful.
Author
Kimberly,
If you are looking for good editing, grammar, better to go elsewhere. I’m moving too fast.