Marie’s love for these small but powerful birds is evident throughout as she brings their fiercely fragile existence to life. Readers will learn about the birds’ appetites, the half-dollar sized nests they build, and their fondness for baths, among other fascinating facts, all set against the backdrop of kaleidoscopic nature shots of vivid parks, flower gardens, and more. The book’s central hummingbird speaks in reverent tones of being saved by Marie—“swaddled in warmth, a tiny, healing cup”—and shares the lifesaving measures that restored its health, including special dropper feedings. That spirit of kindness flits across every page, as the narrator shares several ways readers can help hummingbirds—and other important creatures—to not only survive, but thrive.

Despite some minor structural issues, the book is as charming and vibrant as the birds it features, and Marie includes a glossary and traceable outlines of common hummingbird types at the end for readers to color: whether it’s Rivoli’s brilliantly hued hummingbird or the jeweled Mexican Violetear, young fans will relish the chance to get up close and personal with these tiny legends—a gentle reminder that, in the end, “we matter one and all.”

Takeaway: Kaleidoscopic exploration of the gentle power of hummingbirds.

Comparable Titles: Patricia A. Thorpe’s Harry the Hummingbird, Robert Burleigh’s Tiny Bird.

Production grades
Cover: B+
Design and typography: A
Illustrations: B+
Editing: B+
Marketing copy: A