Member Reviews
I love this series. I thoroughly recommend each and every title within this series. This particular title, focusing on birds of prey, is equally bright, colourful and informative.
I'm a big fan of birds in general and raptors in particular so this book was right up my alley. And it is packed with information. We learn about every aspect of the behavior and biology of birds of prey. Unlike some of the books in the Science Comics series, Flood doesn't force the information into an awkward plot. There is a loose framework of a narrator explaining these birds to a squirrel. Essentially, the science is allowed to stand on it's own. It can be a bit dense in information but the illustrations and mild humor keep the reader engaged. It's a volume you could read several times and gain new insights each time.
Glorious pages show a huge panoply of different birds. It’s awe-inspiring. The impressive art and color carry through, as we learn more about what defines a bird of prey.
Flood’s comparisons are illustrated in detail, making his points memorable. Raptors are larger birds with sharp talons that eat meat obtained through hunting. Flood shows the birds in history and myth, their environments and anatomy. The detail here is comprehensive without being overwhelming, with information on flight, feathers, sounds, sight, and behavior, including courtship and reproduction.
Plenty of fascinating facts follow, with key characteristics of individual species called out, including how Australian eagles work together to take down a kangaroo. It’s all beautifully illustrated, with plenty of majestic birds and inspiring scenery.
The book ends with information on conservation efforts, environmental issues, and a history of falconry. Science Comics: Birds of Prey is a fascinating read that makes the most of its art and format.
I received an arc of this title from NetGalley for an honest review. I love these Science Comics and was excited for this one on birds of prey. Great information in a fun way for kids.
Kids of all ages will love the conversational presentation of facts on the anatomy, history, sport, and ecological importance of raptors. Older students will find the amount of information, which includes a glossary, as satisfying as any text heavy title, and younger readers will be enthralled factoids and colorful illustrations. This is a fantastic addition to this series which never outgrows the audience!
Birds of Prey: Terrifying Talons is a captivating nonfiction graphic novel that
gives a detailed overview of raptors through time, the history of their scientific study, biology, and how they fit into the ecosystem of the world. I loved that this Science Comic imparted a deeper understanding of raptors with dozens of fascinating facts. Science Comics always teach me something new and I just geeked out at family dinner telling my kids and husband all my favorite new diurnal raptor facts.
Birds of Prey is a great addition to the Science Comics series, all of which are enticing books for reluctant readers. I’ve volunteered with kids who are daunted and overwhelmed by chapter books, graphic novels end up being a great option to get them reading. Not having dense text and being able to turn pages more quickly has helped build confidence and excitement to read. The Science Comics series is the perfect recommendation for reluctant readers and kids who enjoy nonfiction.