Reader Roundup: March 2025 plus a POM
March had plenty of wind and rain marking the start of spring in a blustery way. Most books selected dwelt on mysteries ranging from classics like Josephine Tey to contemporary authors such as Robert Thorogood. Taking a break from solving murders I was delighted to have a longtime library hold arrive and spent a few days relishing a birder’s journal—but this wasn’t just anybody’s birding journal and proved to be my only five star read for the month.
The Backyard Bird Chronicles by Amy Tan
Amy Tan applies her talents as a writer to keeping a six year journal of her backyard birds. Her observations are witty and insightful and provide a perspective that falls between enthusiast and expert.
Her detailed descriptions of bird behavior, accompanied by her impressive (and fun) illustrations create an informative and entertaining read.
April is also National Poetry Month and I’m providing an appropriate poem.
Hope” is the thing with feathers
BY EMILY DICKINSONSHARE
“Hope” is the thing with feathers –
That perches in the soul –
And sings the tune without the words –
And never stops – at all –
And sweetest – in the Gale – is heard –
And sore must be the storm –
That could abash the little Bird
That kept so many warm –
I’ve heard it in the chillest land –
And on the strangest Sea –
Yet – never – in Extremity,
It asked a crumb – of me.
Pam Webb 
When I discovered this gem while browsing the animal section of our trusty library branch, I was delighted. Amy Tan’s talent as a writer (and illustrator; who knew?) comes through. If you remember some of my posts, you know I have a soft spot for our feathered friends and relish their visits. The only negative thing about this book is that it had to end. Yet there’s hope: a little bird told me (or was it the author?) that another is on the way. Thank you for sharing!
It definitely brightened my reading and I learned quite a bit from her observations.