Book Review (2/2): Birds of Europe

Concern: "The book is also lacking a quick (one- or two-page) index, but I can live without this feature."

This was no problem while I was using the book during our birding excursions. The index is nearly 20 full pages, and includes common and taxonomic names. Sub-entries are indented and the text is clear so I didn't have any trouble using it to quickly find what I was looking for.

Concern: "The thick paper cover is not too much sturdier than the average paperback; I can imagine a well-used book will quickly begin to show its age [...]. My review copy has only been traveling around my office for a couple of weeks and the corners are already starting to fray."

A totally needless worry, so far. The book got more wear moving around my office, somehow. I carried it into the field in my little book bag and took it in and out many times, including in the howling wind and rain. It's in fine shape. Sturdier than it first appears, I suppose!

So there you have it. There are a lot of things to love about this book, but the the fine illustrations really stand out, and the detailed yet familiar species descriptions are outstanding. I give Birds of Europe 4.5 Goldfinches out of 5.

Disclosure: This is my own original, honest review of Birds of Europe, a copy of which was provided to me free of charge by the publisher.

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