#1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • A gorgeous, witty account of birding, nature, and the beauty around us that hides in plain sight, written and illustrated by the best-selling author of The Joy Luck Club • With a foreword by David Allen Sibley “Unexpected and spectacular” —Ann Patchett, best-selling author of These Precious Days "The drawings and essays in this book do a lot more than just describe the birds. They carry a sense of discovery through observation and drawing, suggest the layers of patterns in the natural world, and emphasize a deep personal connection between the watcher and the watched. The birds that inhabit Amy Tan’s backyard seem a lot like the characters in her novels.” —David Allen Sibley, from the foreword Tracking the natural beauty that surrounds us, The Backyard Bird Chronicles maps the passage of time through daily entries, thoughtful questions, and beautiful original sketches.

With boundless charm and wit, author Amy Tan charts her foray into birding and the natural wonders of the world. In 2016, Amy Tan grew overwhelmed by the state of the world: Hatred and misinformation became a daily presence on social media, and the country felt more divisive than ever. In search of peace, Tan turned toward the natural world just beyond her window and, specifically, the birds visiting her yard.

But what began as an attempt to find solace turned into something far greater—an opportunity to savor quiet moments during a volatile time, connect to nature in a meaningful way, and imagine the intricate lives of the birds she admired.

Step into the enchanting world just beyond your doorstep with 'The Backyard Bird Chronicles'. A celebration of nature’s melodious inhabitants, this book invites readers to explore the magical microcosm of avian life readily available right outside their own windows. Full of enchanting encounters and insightful knowledge, it's a journey through the sky, into nests, and among vibrant feathers that will intrigue both seasoned birdwatchers and novices alike.

Explore the diverse ecosystems and avifauna found in your own backyard gaining appreciation for nature's delicate balance. Learn field-friendly tips and techniques to enhance your birdwatching skills and observations for personal enjoyment or citizen science. Gain insight into the significance of birds in various cultures and ecosystems fostering a deeper connection to wildlife.

Dive into the varied landscapes of 'The Backyard Bird Chronicles where each page brings a vivid encounter with myriad bird species thriving around us. This book breaks ground on the importance of birdwatching as both a hobby and a scientific pursuit. Through its engaging narrative readers unravel the wonders of avian behaviors migrations and their crucial roles in ecosystems.

With each chapter you are guided to discover how birds communicate survive and thrive. The pages turn revealing a blend of personal observations and scientific explanations bringing you closer to understanding these winged creatures that flit through your daily life. The surprising resilience and adaptability of these birds are well-documented with a storytelling prowess that transforms pages into lush habitats and vibrant skies.

The book not only delves into species' interactions with their environment but also encourages readers to embrace simple conservation practices. From the backyard to broader landscapes The Backyard Bird Chronicles' makes the case for observant eyes and mindful actions that protect these avian wonders. Here birdwatching becomes a journey of exploration reflection and advocacy showing how each sighting ties into the larger tapestry of life on earth.

'The Backyard Bird Chronicles' distinguishes itself through its blend of storytelling and scientific exploration offering a comprehensive view that is both informative and enchanting Its unique narrative style seamlessly integrates captivating personal anecdotes with rigorous ornithological insights This book stands out by inviting readers into a participatory experience illustrating how everyday observations transform into meaningful contributions to citizen science and conservation efforts The author’s passionate plea for appreciating the avian world echoes throughout inspiring action and awareness The accessible and engaging language used throughout the book ensures that it appeals to a wide audience Whether you are an experienced birdwatcher or a curious beginner the vivid depictions and practical tips foster an inclusive entry into the rich world of birds