My hunch is that us oldsters can appreciate this book just as much as
the younger set. While the artwork is relatively simple and the story is
simple, the relationship between Mr. Flynn, the long-time bird watcher,
and the exuberant Ollie McPhee sends a clear message. No matter what
our age, we have something to learn from others of all ages. In this
case, Mr. Flynn slowly and rather reluctantly at first shows Ollie how
to be a true bird watcher and record his sightings. In the process, we
all get a feel for how simple and fulfilling bird watching can be. Both
start out rather bored, Mr. Flynn wondering if his adventuring days are
over, while Ollie is, well, a kid. He's bored and lives for the moment
he can dash outside. One day he dashes into Mr. Flynn, ouch, and their
lives change forever. A touching story with more than a touch of humor.
I've got to ask, have you ever seen a white owl? You'll get a feel for
how elusive they are in "The Birders".I only wish it'd been a tiny bit
longer as the ending seemed somewhat abrupt but maybe that was my own
wanting to know what happened next.
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