The story of the impactful partnership between humans and mockingbirds, both scientifically and culturally over the centuries, written for young adults by award-winning nonfiction powerhouse Phil Hoose.
Over the past fifty years, North America has seen its bird population decline by 50%. Yet in spite of exploitation, near-extinction, and a changing climate, the Northern mockingbird has survived—singing its distinct songs through it all. What has allowed this species to stand trial after trial? The answer lies in the remarkable alliance this bird has formed with humanity: the mockingbird has adapted uniquely to our evolution, our developments, our worst mistakes, our highest art. In the meantime, the Mockingbird has become a cultural touchstone and a scientific marvel.
DUET is the story of this little-known partnership between humans and mockingbirds. It gives name and voice to forgotten players in the mockingbird's story. And it is a case study in courage, resiliency, and the power of song.
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School Library Journal
Gr 9 Up-A duet is a piece for two voices, and award-winning author Hoose provides a new perspective into an amazing bird and its place in American cultural history. Revered in Native American folk tales for its seemingly unending supply of songs, the Northern mockingbird likewise enchanted American settlers. But its unique ability to replicate other bird songs and sing fragments of those songs for hours on end, day and night, brought it close to extirpation. Its singing became so popular that it was hunted, caged, and sold to fill households with song. President Thomas Jefferson even had one in his White House office. Despite the overhunting and loss of habitat as farms and towns replaced its native woodlands, the popular mockingbird thrived. Full-color photographs of the mockingbird in action and reproductions of early illustrations, even the sheet music that celebrated the mockingbird, amplify the engaging narrative. Tips on respecting the environmental needs of birds to help ensure their survival are included. Index not seen. VERDICT A delight to read. Recommend for all libraries for a fresh look at the impact on native species of the settlement of America.-Frances E. Millhouser?(c) Copyright 2011. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.