Bird Girl

A Bank Street Best Book 2025
2025 Kansas NEA Reading Circle List
2025 Capitol Choices

“Esbaum’s…conversational text engagingly conveys her subject’s single-minded pursuit of her passion: sharing her love of birds with the world. Gibbon’s…evocative acrylic-ink and colored-pencil illustrations depict the era and the beauty of the environs.” —The Horn Book

“It’s a pleasure to meet the bold bird ambassador and watch her flourish, and the vibrant acrylic and colored-pencil illustrations offer a superb sense of play and movement, beautifully matching Gene’s zest for adventures in the natural world. A splendid introduction to a lesser-known life that is sure to inspire.” —Booklist

“Esbaum relies on simply stated language and syntax, emphasizing Gene’s love of birds and allowing her determination to shine through. Gibbon’s glowing, detailed acrylic-and-ink illustrations appear in vignettes or in full-page or double-page spreads, matching and enhancing the text. Though greatly respected in her own time, Gene Stratton-Porter is far less well known today; this work rectifies that oversight—this self-taught woman naturalist will come alive for young readers. Fascinating and inspiring.” —Kirkus Reviews

“A captivating biography of Gene Stratton-Porter, a bird lover and photographer… Gibbon’s warm, mixed-media illustrations (paint and colored pencils) bring Porter’s story to life, showcasing her emotional depth and determination. Esbaum’s narrative masterfully conveys Porter’s struggles and triumphs…more about her life and work appears in the very thorough back matter. VERDICT An inspiring tale of passion, resilience, and innovation, covering a remarkable life and encouraging children to pursue their own interests and their dreams.—School Library Journal