In the Air and Everywhere: The Scientific American Pop-Up Book of Birds

This pop-up book has 5 spreads on birds from different habitats, as well as an introduction spread (no pop ups) about birds in general. The illustrations are beautiful, the information is interesting, and the pop ups are dynamic given the 1994 publishing date. The intro layout briefly covers bird bones and feathers (and how these help a bird to fly) and things to look for when you see a bird (filed markings, flight pattern and wing shape, habitat, and behavior). The 5 spreads cover different habitats: Shore and Sea, Desert, Open Spaces, Marsh, and Woodlands. Each spread has text discussing the habitat, a center illustration with a pop up, a pull out tab with identification and info on the center illustrations, and 3 small vignettes (either a window with 3D illustrations or a pop up) with brief text underneath. The book may seem a little awkward at first as the small vignettes pop with the tension of the open book. This seems like it might be delicate at first, but it actually is quite sturdy. The book does require two hands for best viewing. This book would be good for children, casual bird enthusiasts, or the pop-up collector.