Book Reviews

The Complete Idiot's Guide to Bird Care and Training
by Jacqueline O'Neill
Price: 23.95 Canadian

five out of five
     I found this book to be a current, up to date book that was very easy to read. The chapters begin with what will be discussed, topics are presented in short 2-3 paragraphs and the chapters end with a summary of important topics that were covered. This format makes it easy to read, easy to find information and fun. I highly recommend it for beginners and as a great reference for more experienced bird owners.Reviewed by: Anne

Feeding Your Pet Bird
by Petra M. Burgmann, DVM
1993 Barron's Educational Series Inc.

four out of five
This is a very informative book that greatly influenced my beliefs in bird nutrition. It can seem almost overwhelming in the number of specific vitamins and minerals discussed. The tables provided summarize the information and can narrow down your specific inquiries. I find it a great reference that I have referred back to many times.
Reviewed by: Kari

Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover's Soul
by Jack Canfield , Mark V. Hansen

four out of five

A wonderful collection of stories that tugs at the heartstrings and reinforce the bonds between humans and animals of all types. With 90 stories in the book I was personally disappointed that only three were about parrot type pet birds. They are; When Snowball Melted, Life Lessons from Lovebirds, and, my favorite, The Truth About Annie. It is an emotional read for animal lovers and made me wonder at times who teaches who about life.

Reviewed by: Kari

Natural Health Care for Your Bird
by Bernard Dorenkamp

zero out of five
Scary... I simply cannot believe a book with this bad information was published in 1998. This is more a book of what NOT to do.

For example:

  • Tie your bird's beak shut when you are grooming it! (p.105)
  • Irrigate the nose by putting drops of saline into the nostrils every 2 to 4 weeks!! (p.110)
That is only 2 of many horrifying ideas contained in this book. Please do not follow all the strange ideas the book presents. Spend your $12 on the internet e-mailing clubs for advice or a reputable periodical subscription.
Reviewed by: Kari

Quaker Parrakeet Bappies 
"Aren't we so sweet and cute.  You better learn what you can 'cause I'll get you wrapped around my pretty toe.  It won't be long before I am too smart for you."

The Companion Parrot Handbook
by Sally Blanchard

five out of five

Finally a book that explains the behavior of our pets with their psychology in mind.   It is more aimed toward having a good relationship between the bird and the owner than one of dominance.  Definitely worth the fairly high price and would be a great book for those researching the prospect of owning a bird.

Reviewed by Kari

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