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Birdsong in a Time of Silence

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About this listen

Brought to you by Penguin.

Birdsong in a Time of Silence is the story of a man rediscovering his passion for birdsong and nature. Narrated against the backdrop of the current pandemic, the book opens by acknowledging the new awareness of birds and birdsong that was made possible by the coincidence of spring and the experience of lockdown.

Starting with a portrait of the blackbird - most prominent and articulate of the early spring singers - the book proceeds through 10 chapters to explore how birds sing, the variety of singing birds (including the arrival of summer migrants), the science behind their choice of song and nest-sites, and the varied meanings that people have brought to and taken from birdsong - ultimately demonstrating that natural history and human history cannot be separated. In closing, the book reflects on the collective reawakening brought on by this strangest of springs.

©2021 Steven Lovatt (P)2021 Penguin Audio Animals Biological Sciences Birdwatching Nature & Ecology Outdoors & Nature Science Natural History

Critic reviews

A delightful meditation on the wonder of birdsong, and how it helped us at a moment of crisis (Stephen Moss)
This is a joyous and profound meditation on birdsong and what it means to us, a book that brings to life an essential part of the natural world that most of us take so much for granted that we scarcely notice it (PD Smith)
Lovatt's approach is fresh, joyful and uncomplicated. Birdsong in a Time of Silence recalls a spring we will never forget but also reminds us that the pandemic grew out of our disregard for nature, and could presage ecological disaster (Nicola Chester)
All stars
Most relevant
When I started listening, I thought that it was a bit strange, but after further narration I really enjoyed the descriptions and the beautiful language as well as the interesting bird life information.

Surprising

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After reading the excerpt in a weekend supplement and having an Audible credit to spare, I thought I'd try the sample, just to check the narrator wasn't a put-off. I needn't have worried as he delivers this beautiful book sensitively.
Of course, the audiobook allows for samples of birdsong as well which adds to the lyrical, carefully observed and hugely knowledgeable text.
Celebrating his/our re-born passion for the natural world during lockdown, this is a timely and loving appreciation of the natural world and one destined to become a long-time favourite for me.

Lyrical and fascinating

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