Title
The Birds That Audubon Missed: Discovery And Desire In The American Wilderness,New
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Renowned naturalist Kenn Kaufmanexamines the scientific discoveries of John James Audubon and his artistic and ornithologist peers to show how what they saw (and what they missed) reflects how we perceive and understand the natural world.Raging ambition. Towering egos. Competition under a veneer of courtesy. Heroic effort combined with plagiarism, theft, exaggeration, and fraud. This was the state of bird study in eastern North America during the early 1800s, as a handful of intrepid men raced to find the last few birds that were still unknown to science.The most famous name in the bird world was John James Audubon, who painted spectacular portraits of birds. But although his images were beautiful, creating great art was not his main goal. Instead, he aimed to illustrate (and write about) as many different species as possible, obsessed with trying to outdo his rival, Alexander Wilson. George Ord, a fan and protg of Wilson, held a bitter grudge against Audubon for years, claiming he had faked much of his information and his scientific claims. A few of Audubons birds were pure fiction, and some of his writing was invented or plagiarized. Other naturalists of the era, including Charles Bonaparte (nephew of Napoleon), John Townsend, and Thomas Nuttall, also became entangled in the scientific derby, as they stumbled toward an understanding of the natural worldan endeavor that continues to this day.Despite this intense competition, a few speciesincluding some surprisingly common songbirds, hawks, sandpipers, and moremanaged to evade discovery for years. Here, renowned bird expert and artist Kenn Kaufman explores this period in history from a new angle, by considering the birds these people discovered and, especially, the ones they missed. Kaufman has created portraits of the birds that Audubon never saw, attempting to paint them in that artists own stunning style, as a way of examining the history of natural sciences and nature art. He shows how our understanding of birds continues to gain clarity, even as some mysteries persist from Audubons time until ours.
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This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
For more information, please visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
- Q: How many pages does the book have? A: The book has four hundred pages. It provides a comprehensive exploration of bird study and the historical context surrounding it.
- Q: What is the book's binding type? A: The book is hardcover. This binding type ensures durability and a premium feel, making it ideal for collectors.
- Q: What are the dimensions of the book? A: The book measures six inches in length, one point two inches in width, and nine point zero two inches in height. These dimensions make it a convenient size for reading and display.
- Q: Who is the author of the book? A: The author is Kenn Kaufman. He is a renowned naturalist and ornithologist, known for his expertise in bird studies.
- Q: What genre does this book belong to? A: The book belongs to the genre of natural history and biography. It blends historical narrative with scientific insights into bird discovery.
- Q: Is this book suitable for children? A: Yes, the book is suitable for older children interested in nature and birds. Its engaging storytelling can inspire a love for wildlife.
- Q: What topics are covered in the book? A: The book covers the scientific discoveries related to birds in early America, focusing on figures like John James Audubon. It discusses competition, ambition, and the birds that were missed.
- Q: How should I read this book? A: You can read this book at your own pace, enjoying its detailed narratives and illustrations. It's best suited for readers who appreciate historical accounts and ornithology.
- Q: Is this book part of a series? A: No, this book is a standalone title. It offers a unique perspective on bird discovery without being part of a series.
- Q: How do I care for this hardcover book? A: To care for this hardcover book, keep it in a cool, dry place and avoid exposure to direct sunlight. This will help preserve its condition.
- Q: Can I return the book if I don’t like it? A: Yes, you can return the book if it does not meet your expectations. Check the retailer's return policy for specific details.
- Q: What should I do if the book arrives damaged? A: If the book arrives damaged, contact the seller immediately to report the issue and request a replacement or refund.
- Q: Does this book include illustrations? A: Yes, the book includes illustrations of birds. These portraits are inspired by the style of John James Audubon.
- Q: Is there a digital version available? A: Yes, a digital version may be available for purchase. Check online retailers for options in eBook formats.
- Q: What is the main focus of the book? A: The main focus of the book is on the birds that were overlooked by early naturalists, highlighting their discoveries and the competition among them.