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To give young people wings: The Lost Words duo reunite for book of birds

Jackie Morris and Robert Macfarlane give the Guardian exclusive extracts as they aim to open eyes to the wonder of Britain’s declining and endangered species

To give young people wings: The Lost Words duo reunite for book of birds

TL;DR

  • Jackie Morris and Robert Macfarlane, creators of the successful 'The Lost Words,' have collaborated on a new book, 'The Book of Birds.'
  • The book focuses on 49 declining and endangered bird species in Britain, featuring paintings by Morris and words by Macfarlane.
  • The new book aims to evoke the spirit and poetry of birds, encouraging readers to identify with them and raising awareness about their endangered status.
  • Macfarlane noted a significant decline in bird populations globally and expressed a desire to bring birds back into focus and warn against their vanishing.
  • Morris hopes the book will provide an anchor and wings for young readers, making birds visible to those who don't typically see them.
  • 'The Book of Birds' took seven years to create and has already inspired an exhibition at the Bodleian Library.
  • The previous book, 'The Lost Words,' achieved significant success, leading to donations to schools and hospices, and inspiring various cultural adaptations.