Better Birding Book Club

When thinking about the birds that surround us, we quickly acknowledge their grace, beauty, and versatility. Less frequently, however, do we consider their effect on our physical and mental health and the way we think about and practice social, economic, and environmental justice. In this book club, we investigate the joys and benefits of birdwatching, as well as more serious topics like how birds get their names, the heightening impact of environmental changes on birds, and the inherent inequity and assumptions built into the birding practice. Join book club host and bird-enthusiast Brenda the fourth Tuesday of each month to talk books, birds, and bettering the world together.

Birding for a Better World: A Guide to Finding Joy and Community in Nature by Sydney Anderson and Molly Adams

Birding is for everyone. That is the sentiment on which the Feminist Bird Club (FBC) was founded in 2016 and the spirit that is celebrated in this original and timely book. In these pages, Molly Adams, FBC founder, and Sydney Golden Anderson offer readers:

• A celebration of birding and the outdoors
• Examples of how inclusive, affirming, and joyful an activity birding can be
• Awareness of the crucial inclusivity issues facing birding communities today
• Related ideas for radical inclusivity and how to break down barriers around birding for marginalized communities
• Information on the ecological challenges facing birds and all life on earth including habitat loss and warming temperatures
• Actionable steps everyone can take toward environmental justice
• Journaling prompts throughout to offer moments of self-reflection
• Ninety original illustrations from the FBC community

The Feminist Bird Club’s Birding for a Better World illustrates how anyone can engage in the universally available activity of birding, and support equity and environmental justice at the same time, making an excellent gift or self-purchase for seasoned birders and beginners alike, as well as for nature lovers, social justice activists, and anyone seeking actionable information about accessibility and inclusivity in the birding community.

Purchase a copy to read, or grab it from the library, and join us at Dog·Eared Books at 5:30 PM on January 28th, to discuss the book with book club host Brenda! This book club is free to anyone who wishes to participate, no registration necessary.

Also, for 20 minutes after each club meeting, you will receive 20% off all books and merchandise!

For further readings, resources, and to continue the conversation after club ends join the Better Birding Book Club Discord!