BOOK
REVIEWS
"A wonderful
biography, bold and surprising and lively, crackling with the adventures
of the man who did more than anyone else to create the modern popularity
of birdwatching."
-Kenn Kaufman, author of The Kaufman Field Guide to Birds of North
America
"Birdwatcher
is biographical alchemy, blending well researched detail, rich and varied
anecdotes, and Roger in the first person with a writer's insight into
the man who was, and remains, first among 'students of birds.'"
-Pete Dunne, Vice President, New Jersey Audubon Society
"Birdwatcher
brings laughter, tears, profound admiration, and warm memories. To read
it was to have Roger once again sitting in our kitchen, telling great
tales, and every reader will feel that way too."
-Clay and Pat Sutton, authors of Birds and Birding at Cape May
"A brilliant, definitive biography of the man who made birdwatching
the leading outdoor recreation in America."
-George H. Harrison, nature journalist, author, PBS producer
"Birdwatcher
is more than a window into the life and creative process of one of the
world's great ornithologists and artists-it's an exploration, through
the words and memories of dozens of people who knew Roger Tory Peterson
best, of how this remarkable man changed the conservation landscape for
the better, and for good."
-Scott Weidensaul, author of Return to Wild America
"Through interviews
with more than a hundred of Peterson's colleagues and protégés,
Rosenthal weaves an entertaining biography that helps us understand why
Peterson ranks among the world's most celebrated naturalists."
-Stephen W. Kress, Director, Audubon Seabird Restoration Program
"With verve
and elegance Elizabeth Rosenthal paints the life of our most important
naturalist with all the field marks filled in and life ways fleshed out."
-Robert Michael Pyle, author of Sky Time in Gray's River
PRESS, WEB, AND BLOG REVIEWS
Listen here to a brief but enlightening review of Birdwatcher by Ruth Beasley on her High Plains Public Radio Program, “Learning the Birds.”
“Birdwatcher
is the product of over one hundred interviews and an impressive amount
of research….A reminder that Peterson once held a singular position,
and possessed an absolute authority that none of his successors can command….
[The author] does not shrink from describing his less heroic traits.”
--Florida Field Naturalist
“This in-depth
and insightful book is packed with verbatim comments and conversations
from people who knew him through all aspects of his life. These provide
a detailed commentary as this book takes you by the hand and leads you,
through his truly remarkable life, from his formative years right through
the heights of his career to his last years…. By the end of the
book you have the sense that you really know the great man known as the
‘King Penguin.’”
--Alan
Davies and Ruth Miller, authors of The Biggest Twitch
“Elizabeth
Rosenthal interviewed over 100 people and consulted hundreds of documents
to give her readers insight into the life of this extraordinary man. Only
by reading the anecdotes shared by family, friends and colleagues from
around the globe do we get to really know his personality, motivations
and the depth of his contributions to the study of nature and environment.”
--Wisconsin
Natural Resources Magazine
“The delights
of Rosenthal’s book are its frequent recollections and insightful
anecdotes from the letters and journals of Peterson himself, his correspondents
and associates, old and young, many of whom were interviewed by the author….
She describes his warm public presence and his love of sharing his vast
and detailed knowledge of birds with others…. Rosenthal has written
a wonderfully readable and superbly interesting biography that should
be read by all who watch birds and use field guides.”
--Journal of Field Ornithology
“A terrific and thorough look into the life of Roger Tory Peterson….
This book is so much more than just a narrative about Roger the ‘birding
legend.’ What Rosenthal does is tear down the myth and legend and
offer us a wonderful glimpse into the real person.”
--A
Bird’s Eye View with Stella (Huntington-Oyster Bay Audubon Society)
“Birdwatcher
takes us through the various trials and challenges that Roger faced while
trying to create the first Peterson field guides and gives the reader
many in depth views of Roger’s relationships with friends and colleagues
over the years…. One of Roger’s most important interests was
conservation, and Birdwatcher does an excellent job of demonstrating Roger’s
commitment to this subject in everything he did…. The book has many
interviews with Roger’s field companions who provide accounts of
many trips or interactions with Roger…. The book is a wonderfully
accurate and complete treatment of Roger’s life. It is a good read
and I encourage anyone with an interest in the life of this remarkable
man to get a copy.”
--Texas Birds Annual 2009
“Put down your binoculars long enough to add this volume to your
lifelist of good stories.”
--Apalachee
Audubon
“Brings into
clear focus the life and times of Roger Tory Peterson. It is at once a
compelling story and an historical document. An exploration of a personal
past told in simple prose with intelligence and insight.”
--Falcon
Flyer: Peregrine Audubon Society
“It is thoroughly
enjoyable and very informative – a great read, showcasing Peterson’s
influence on the modern birding world, and how he subsequently jump started
the current conservation movement.”
--The Sandpiper: Great South Bay Audubon Society
“Read this
book and you will discover Roger Tory Peterson.”
--Birding
“Rosenthal
applies her extensive research to give us a new understanding of Peterson’s
genius…. The list of people she talked to reads like a naturalist’s
who’s who.”
--T.
Gilbert Pearson Audubon Society
“For any serious
student of birds or for those who have long been inspired by the combination
of artistic genius and efficient identification too that the Peterson
Guides provide, Birdwatcher gives us a greater understanding of how a
lifetime spent in high focus created not only a lasting reference tool
but the catalyst for an outdoor pastime now enjoyed by millions.”
--White-Tailed
Kite: Newsletter of the Altacal Audubon Society
“Roger Tory
Peterson was a self-described obsessive birder…. His concentration
on birding was total and his obsession for birds often caused him difficulties
in getting along with his fellow human beings. Rosenthal’s biography
brings out both aspects of his personality.”
--Tulsa
Scissortail: Tulsa Audubon Society Newsletter
“This comprehensive,
well-researched biography highlights the incredible influence this one
man had on birding and conservation throughout his long life…. Rosenthal
has done her homework for this book.”
--Kestrel:
Salem Audubon Society
“The time and
effort that Rosenthal put into researching and writing the book is clear
through the innumerable quotes and excerpts that she uses from friends
and family, colleagues, acquaintances, and chance encounters. The commentary
is seamlessly melded into the story of Roger’s life, providing an
intimate look at a man who must of us know only by name. The book is an
interesting and enlightening read for anyone who wants to learn more about
the father of the modern birding and conservation movement.”
--OFO News: Newsletter of the Ontario Field Ornithologists
“I found entertaining… some telling hilarious stories that
illustrate Peterson’s character. Her research is thorough and the
result is a well-rounded biography…. Readers will enjoy reading
about Peterson’s successes and his associations with well-known
people in ornithology, bird watching, n ature travel, photography, and
conservation. I enjoyed, also, the details and well told story of Peterson’s
personal life…. Rosenthal’s book is illustrated with interesting
photographs of Peterson and his contemporaries, wives, and friends.”
--The Redstart: The Brooks Bird Club
“Elizabeth Rosenthal takes us thorough Roger’s boyhood and
Depression years with all its ups-and-downs…. Rosenthal gives us
a thorough look at the years spent with Audubon and the U.S. Army Corps
of Engineers…. Along the way, the reader is introduced to Roger’s
16 proteges.”
--Madrone Leaves: Madrone Audubon Society
“This fine
book tells it all: many readers, brought up on Peterson’s books,
will find it fascinating.”
--Birds (publication of the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds)
“The book is
an interesting insight on a man who was undoubtedly an enormous influence
on the development of birdwatching and conservation in many parts of the
globe.”
--British Birds
“Birdwatcher is a comprehensive, entertaining, and informative biography
of the man who, if he didn’t invent birding, might as well have….
Elizabeth Rosenthal seems to have interviewed everyone with deep ties
to Peterson…. This will be the definitive work on and celebration
of Roger Tory Peterson’s life and career….”
--Living
Bird
“This definitive biography by Elizabeth Rosenthal chronicles the
life, personality, accomplishments, and travels of Roger Tory Peterson.
Her methods included not only the usual research work, but dozens upon
dozens of interviews with those who knew Roger Tory Peterson and worked
with him. The result is a readable, detailed biography that really gives
the reader a feel for Peterson the man, as well as Peterson the artist,
author, teacher, conservationist, and ornithologist…. I cannot imagine
a more thorough or insightful examination of Roger Tory Peterson than
you will get from this book. I highly recommend it.”
--The Bluebird (publication of the Audubon Society of Missouri)
“Building on
[over] 100 personal interviews, Rosenthal has gone where no previous Peterson
biographers have dared to venture. The interviews dive into the personal
and emotional side of the man, as well as the birder, conservationist,
and artist we have seen before…. At the conclusion of the book you
are left with a very full picture of arguably the most accomplished and
respected birdwatcher in America, if not the world.”
--Trailside (publication of the Theodore Roosevelt Sanctuary & Audubon
Center)
“A must read!”
--The
Osprey: Newsletter of the Lehigh Valley Audubon Society
“His plate
was always full, and he apparently never looked back. He barely slowed
down, even when his irrepressible enthusiasm nearly cost him his life
– more than once. (You will have to read the book to learn about
those episodes.)
--Buckley Hills Audubon Society Newsletter
“This is a remarkable book about an extraordinary yet complex human
being who was often called the second John James Audubon: Roger Tory Peterson….
There is no doubt that the copious researched details found in this definitive
biography by Elizabeth J. Rosenthal will never be surpassed.”
--Pennsylvania Birds (publication of the Pennsylvania Society for Ornithology)
“This biography… is full of wonderful stories that provide
a complete picture of this complex man.”
--Monticello Bird Club Newsletter
“The book fairly
brims with personal anecdotes from friends, colleagues, family, and RTP
himself. It’s a gem.”
--The
Cardinal: Saint Paul Audubon Society
“A well written
biography…. One comes away with a real sense of just how much this
one man contributed to the world of birding as we know it today….
This biography truly helps us understand the man behind the legend. Previously
unpublished photographs highlight the text and paint a very personal picture
of the most famous name in birding.”
--The
Osprey: Eastern Long Island Audubon Society
“Rosenthal
effectively introduces us to Peterson by gleaning information from numerous
interviews with family, friends, and colleagues…. [Birdwatcher]
provides a wonderful background to important worldwide conservation and
preservation issues associated with birds; and Peterson was in the thick
of it all.”
--The Bluebird: Evansville Audubon Society Newsletter
“Elizabeth J. Rosenthal’s hundred plus interviews, copious
library research, and journalistic skills are evident in her authorship.
She has captured the essence of this naturalist and his career.”
--Book
Reviews: South Florida Audubon Society
“I found the
book to be a great read, and the hundreds of interviews with Peterson’s
friends, family and associates kept me turning the pages. This book is
a delightful tribute to this award-winning field guide author, and teacher.”
--Gleanings: Newburyport Birders’ Newsletter
“Rosenthal places Peterson’s life and activities in the context
of the history of ornithology and conservation, demonstrating how Peterson
both shaped events and was shaped by them…. [The author] brings
considerable erudition and a fine writing style to this work, which is
based upon dozens of interviews with Peterson’s family, friends
and followers.”
--Whistler:
The Audubon Society of Forsyth County Newsletter
“Author Elizabeth
J. Rosenthal explores the life of this icon of ornithology…. On
the 75th anniversary of the publication of Peterson’s first field
guide, his message of conservation and consideration for the natural world
has never been more important.”
--Nature Conservancy
“The eventful
story of Peterson’s life, his travels and his accomplishments, is
well told by Elizabeth J. Rosenthal, and her research is thoroughly rooted
in first-person accounts – fortunately still in time to find many
of his friends and colleagues still living.”
--Bubba’s
Book Club (musician Neal Peart’s book blog)
“I couldn’t
put it down…. This is a well written and informative book that anyone
should enjoy reading. It is a must read for all birders.”
--The Warbler: Alan Devoe B ird Club
“A must-read
for all naturalists and conservationists.”
--Niagara
Nature News: Niagara Falls Nature Club
“The book is
full of excellent quotes and great stories…. This makes for enjoyable
reading. You will come to know the man personally.”
--Chickadee
Chatter: The Newsletter of the Allegheny Plateau Audubon Society
“An excellent
biography, providing many captivating details about one of the best birders
of the 20th century.”
--Harlequin Happenings: Newsletter of the Olympic Peninsula Audubon Society
“Gives perhaps
the most honest treatment of Peterson…. It delves into his early
home life…. It also shows the human side of him…. It exposes
his ego…. It is a well-written account full of quotes and interviews…
with many of the people who knew him, right up until the last years of
his life…. It keeps his memory alive and relevant.”
--The Maryland Yellowthroat: Newsletter of the Maryland Ornithological
Society
“Birdwatcher
is a dynamic and much-needed biography of a major writer and artist of
twentieth century natural history. Birdwatcher reveals Roger
Tory Peterson to be a complex man, passionate and perhaps obsessed with
birds. This rich biography also reminds the reader that writing and illustrating
the seminal field guide to American birds was only the start of Peterson’s
long and rewarding life.”
--Bird Observer
“Rosenthal’s
biography is written in a highly readable journalistic style with extensive
interviews of friends, colleagues and family members…. We live through
Peterson’s frustrations, fears, pride and compulsion to excel as
we turn each page. It is a story that will hold the reader’s attention
from beginning to end.”
--Nature Alberta
“A very entertaining
book…. It brings Roger Tory Peterson into your home and makes him
a friend for life, even if you never had the pleasure of meeting him.”
--Audubon
News and Views: Newsletter of the Canton Audubon Society
“This is a
thoroughly researched book on every facet of the Great Birder’s
life.”
--The
Hooter: Kittitas Audubon Society
“Audubon members
will be particularl y interested in the substantial role Peterson played
in the organization…. Reading this book left me wishing that I could
have personally known this fascinating and influential birder.”
--Aikorns:
Aiken Audubon Society
“When I opened
it I could not put it down.”
--The
Wood Duck: Lower Trinity Valley Bird Club
“No other biography
of Peterson comes close in the number of interviews Rosenthal conducted
to allow us to observe this complex man as we never have before….
Unlike many biographies, Birdwatcher moves along with an energetic pace
and has the power to evoke a range of emotions.”
--The
Avalanche: North Cascades Audubon Society
“This biography
is a real pleasure to read. Instead of being a dry recounting of Peterson’s
activities, it’s a collection of fascinating stories told by many
of the people whose lives were enriched by his passion for birds.”
--Cecil Bird Life: Newsletter of the Cecil Bird Club
“The author
…allows the reader to peer into the past, not to relive memories,
but to understand the molding of an influential man. The book answers
more than the simple, ‘What did he do?’ and delves into the
realm of, ‘Why did he do what he did?’ It is cleverly written
and very insightful.”
--The
Stilt: Newsletter of the Bridgerland Audubon Society
“The book is
crafted in a clever way that draws on analogies from the life of birds
and uses bird tracks as dividers within chapters. The impressive list
of interviews, and gathering of materials from letters, documents, etc.
resulted in a book that leaves few stones unturned and imparts a feeling
of knowing Roger Tory Peterson on a personal level.”
--The
Heron: Bimonthly Newsletter of the Fond du Lac County Audubon Society
“Elizabeth
Rosenthal…relates many recollections that are woven together to
give a meaningful picture of an intense and complex man with a critical
combination of artistic talent, observational skills, and biological knowledge….
The reader gets a glimpse of his many activities that fostered the huge
growth in interest in birds among Americans during his life.”
--Anne Arundel Bird
Club (go to May-July 2 009 newsletter)
“Included are
the expected anecdotes extolling his notable qualities, but Rosenthal
pulls no punches and includes reminiscences that depict his less saintly
side. A clear picture emerges of a charismatic, charming, intensely focused
artist and bird lover….”
--Audubon
Lifelines: A Publication of the Amos W. Butler Audubon Society
“Please order
at your nearest independent bookstore!”
--The Harbinger: Ascutney Mountain Audubon Society
“The biography
fills out the life of the artist, photographer, writer, conservationist,
editor, and traveler.”
--Brattleboro
Reformer
“It is really
a fresh look at the man who set us all off on a wonderful lifelong interest
in birds and the environment…. The author intersperses direct quotations
into each chapter that give a depth to the objectivity of the biography.”
--Skimmer:
The Francis M. Weston Audubon Society
“A biography
rich in personal anecdotes…. A fine piece of scholarship.”
--The Passenger Pigeon (a publication of the Wisconsin Ornithological
Society)
"Provides a
real sense of Peterson's personality, influence, accomplishments, and,
in a few instances, less desirable characteristics. The quotes impart
a personal tone to the book and a warmth often lacking in straight descriptive
prose.... I find this a well-researched, endearing account of a man who...
became known as the 'King Penguin,' an icon signifying his strong influence
on the development of so many birdwatchers, conservationists, and ornithologists.
I enjoyed the book thoroughly and recommend it highly."
--The Condor (publication of the Cooper Ornithological Society)
"The breadth
of insights regarding the essential character of RTP is greatly expanded
by Rosenthal's extensive use of quoted material from over 100 interviews.
These quotes are the sine qua non of the book.... The list of interviewees
reads like a list of the top 100 birders and naturalists of our time....
The writing in the book is clear and accessible.... You won't go wrong
with this book."
--Douglasia: Journal of the Washington Native Plant Society
"Elizabeth Rosenthal
has written the definitive biography of the best-known ornithologist of
the 20th century.... Peterson's contributions to conservation and the
environmental movement are covered in detail by Rosenthal.... This is
a book everyone interested in birds and conservation will want to read."
--The Migrant: Whitefish Point Bird Observatory
"This is a book
you must read."
-- The Urban Audubon: New York City Audubon Newsletter
"Peterson had
to rethink what kind of book was needed to broaden the audience that enjoyed
the identification and study of birds. Elizabeth Rosenthal's biography
Birdwatcher: the Life of Roger Tory Peterson places that accomplishment
in the context of Peterson's life and in its historical context.... Peterson's
concern for the osprey near his home in Old Lyme, Connecticut, is presented
in the context of the DDT controversy."
--Mountain
Home
"Entertaining
and informative, this biography was a fine read.... This well-researched
book presents a slice of individual, birding, and conservation history.
Anyone who has ever opened a Peterson guide of any kind should find this
detailed account of his life to be of interest. I found it satisfying
to add this book to my lifelist."
--Albert
Lea Tribune
"This is the
story of a man who loved nature....I found the best portion of the book
to be the description of the development of the guides, and secondarily
also enjoyed the description of Peterson's birding expeditions."
--The
Sandpiper: Grays Harbor Audubon Society
"I not only
came away from this highly readable book with a much broader understanding
of Roger and the birding scene of his time, but also the changes going
on now.... April 2009 marks the 75th anniversary of the first Peterson
guide. This book is a great way to honor that legacy."
--The Natural World: The Newsletter of the Audubon Wildlife Society
"The most complete
biography I have ever read.... His life and interests were much broader
than I had imagined.... To really understand Peterson, the man, and his
significance, ... read Birdwatcher. The book is well written, well documented,
and unbelievably detailed."
--LOS
News: Newsletter of the Louisiana Ornithological Society
"I recommend
this book for those wanting to find out just how important Roger Tory
Peterson was in making birding the way it is today."
--The
Rivertown Naturalist: Newsletter of the Hudson River Audubon Society of
Westchester
"This biography
is rich in history, including natural history. Any citizen of the world
with a little feeling for the name Roger Tory Peterson really should get
this book and catch up with their history.... The 'King Penguin' truly
was a great man and Birdwatcher is mindful of the humanity of that greatness."
--Chukar
Chatter: A Newsletter for the Grand Valley Audubon Society
"Birdwatcher
is a wonderful book.... This is a book you will want to own."
--Feathers:
Payne County Audubon Society
"The reader
can get a three-dimensional picture not just of 'The Great Man' himself
but also of his wives, his friends, and his rivals.... One does come away
with an increased appreciation for both Peterson's artistic genius and
his incredible energy and work ethic."
--Chickadee
Chronicle: The Newslettter of the Stanton Bird Club
“Rosenthal
weaves a detailed and engaging biography through interviews with more
than 100 of Peterson’s colleagues and friends.”
--The Call: Newsletter of the Merrymeeting Audubon Society
“The conservation
stories and the stories of the research Roger was involved in… are
particularly interesting…. The book is definitely a must-read for
everyone interested in birds and conservation of birds and habitat.”
--Kakya Taymut (Bird News): Newsletter of the Pendleton Bird Club
“Rosenthal
has produced an extremely readable and fascinating book about the life
of a giant in the field of ornithology…. Rosenthal eloquently communicates
just how important and influential Peterson was.”
--Vermilion
Flycatcher: Tucson Audubon’s Bi-Monthly Newsletter
“Elizabeth
Rosenthal’s book takes you on a life journey of Roger Tory Peterson,
from his birth, through his personal life, birding career and professional
expeditions up until his death at age 88 in 1996.. I recommend this book
as a great source of information about how one man has inf luenced the
world of birding.”
--Audubon’s
Warbler: Newsletter of Kern Audubon Society
“A fascinating
history of Roger’s life as well as the evolution of field guides,
environmental education, the conservation movement, nature travel and
the National Audubon Society.”
--Trumpeter:
The Minnesota River Valley Audubon Chapter
“Birdwatcher
… delves into the spe cifics of his influence on the birding world,
conservation and the environmental movement…. It’s an enjoyable
book. Rosenthal’s writing is dynamic and keeps you going.”
--Southwestern
Flyer: Newsletter of the Forth Worth Audubon Society
“This work
is substantive…. The author provides an in-depth glimpse into how
Peterson was influenced to pursue ornithology as a career to his accomplishments
as a painter, sketch artist, lecturer, and educator.”
--The
Northeast Wisconsin Birder
“Combining
a literary and journalistic style, Rosenthal’s in-depth portrait
of the complex man is further complemented by an array of never-before-seen-photographs.”
--The Peterson Journal (a publication of the Roger Tory Peterson Institute
of Natural History)
“Reading Elizabeth
Rosenthal’s fine biography has been quite enlightening…. This
book presents an interesting history of birding and the growing interest
in natural history in the US and around the world through the life and
work of Roger Tory Peterson.”
--The Wild Phlox: North Central Washington Audubon Society
“Readers who
want to know just about everything about the man who made
watching birds a popular occupation will find it here.”
--Thorn
Creek Audubon Society Newsletter
“The author
allows the reader to get to know the man as well as the legend who had
so much influence on the ornithological world…. For those who enjoy
the birding world and would like to get to know one of its giants, this
is a must read.”
--The
Chat: Buchanan County Bird Club Newsletter
“Just how much
impact Peterson had in the world of birds and birdwatching is brought
out by Rosenthal in her extensive interviews of family, friends and people
from all over the world…. Rosenthal takes us on a ‘Peterson
life adventure.’
--The
Fish Hawk Herald: Coeur d’Alene Chapter of the National Audubon
Society
“A remarkable
biography of the great gentleman…. A must-read book that presents
a greater insight of the man with all his strengths and weaknesses revealed.”
--Central Sierra Audubon Society’s Sierra Squawker
“In her recently
published biography,… Elizabeth J. Rosenthal presents a comprehensive
study of his life and multiple accomplishments.”
--Compass:
Chicago Audubon Society
“Rosenthal,
herself an avid birder, writes with the ease and clarity of one who has
done her research and understands her subject…. Her storytelling
ability pulls us in and her engaging writing style makes Peterson come
alive.”
--The
Pelican: Lahontan Audubon Society
“Rosenthal’s
book is a complete guide to Peterson’s life from a young boy in
Jamestown, New York, to his death in 1996 in Old Lyme, Connecticut, with
many extraordinary adventures in between.”
--The
Cactus Wren-dition: Maricopa Audubon Society
“I highly recommend
this book to anyone who reads…. The author obviously spent untold
hours collecting and presenting information in ways that awed me…,
made me laugh…, and even made me shed tears….”
--Utah
Ornithological Society: Book Review
“This book
really put together for me not only the life of this remarkable man but
also the history of how our organization, the Audubon Society, was put
together and organized. I never knew just how much Roger Peterson had
a hand in the early days in New York.”
--Chickadee
Chatter: Newsletter of the Lycoming Audubon Society
“The author
invites readers to understand Roger Tory Peterson on both a personal and
professional level…. Sit by the fireside and enjoy reading this
magnificent biography…. This is a must read for amateur as well
as professional birders, environmentalists and visionaries.”
--The
Almanac: Newsletter of the Aldo Leopold Audubon Society
“This very
satisfying biography allows the reader the opportunity to meet both the
man and the hero.”
--Western
Meadowlark: San Bernardino Valley Audubon Society
“Well researched
and a must for the libraries of professional ornithologists as well as
amateur birders…. Valuable for the Chapter Notes that include references
to books, scientific papers and letters from RTP housed in RTPI and thus
available to students….”
--The Ibis
“This is a
book birders have been waiting for.”
--The
Daily Herald
“This well-researched
biography explores the man from his youth to his passing…and would
make a great addition to the library of anyone interested in the natural
world.”
--Atlantic
Currents: Newsletter of the Atlantic Audubon Society
“Elizabeth
Rosenthal’s new biography… weaves together famous names….
The biography explores his personal life with wives and children and collaborators
and rivals.”
--Bird
Calls: Newsletter of the Bastrop County Audubon Society
“I thoroughly
enjoyed this book and consider it well worth reading for any person interested
in the natural world and those who have contributed to our knowledge of
it. By the end of the book the reader feels like he/she knew the ‘Great
Man’ personally.”
--Prairie
Falcon: Northern Flint Hills Audubon Society Newsletter
“Ms. Rosenthal
does an excellent job of helping us feel RTP’s passion and single-minded
focus on birds and their conservation.”
--The
Bird Call: Newsletter of the Bronx River-Sound Shore Audubon Society
“I enjoyed
reading about his adventures, the people he influenced, his family life,
his work ethic and most of all his love for the environment. This is truly
an enjoyable read on these cold winter nights.”
--CAWS:
Newsletter of the Madison Audubon Society
“You will be
pleased to read the biography of Peterson written by Elizabeth J. Rosenthal….
Peterson’s passion with conservation is made clear throughout this
exhaustively researched and well-written narrative of his life.”
--The
Quail: Mount Diablo Audubon Society
“Rosenthal
has made an important contribution in documenting the story of this fascinating
person. As I was reading the last few pages of the book, I found myself
hoping that Peterson could live a bit longer to finish all of those projects
he still had in motion. And I also wanted the book to continue with its
many insights into the life of this unique person.”
--The
Leaflet: Sassafras Audubon Society
“Elizabeth
Rosenthal’s detailed account of the life and times of one of the
great figures in birding and conservation includes great anecdotes….
This is an entertaining biography.
--The Chat: Audubon Society of Corvallis
“Elizabeth
has a special way of projecting his life and what I liked most is her
approach of [showing] how important conservation was in every project
he was involved in.”
--Mon@rch’s
Nature Blog
“Elizabeth
J. Rosenthal ha s interviewed his friends, family, and colleagues to introduce
us to the genius, drive, and humanity of a singular individual, Roger
Tory Peterson.”
--StrangeArk
Blog
“This book
is an insightful look into the life of one of the central figures in American
ornithology, and should be of interest to anyone who has ever thumbed
through the pages of a Peterson field guide.”
--Bluebird magazine (publication of North American Bluebird Society)
“Everything
you ever wanted to know about Roger Tory Peterson, and more, about sums
up this newly released book about his life.”
--Caloosa
Bird Club: Book Reviews
“It’s
a thorough and comprehensive treatment of Peterson’s rise from a
poor Jamestown beginning to his reign as the preeminent wildlife artist
of his time…. It makes for a great read.”
--The
Pine Warbler: Pine Woods Audubon Society
“What impresses
me the most, and Rosenthal’s biography illustrates it well, is Dr.
Peterson’s untiring and persistent environmental conservation efforts….
You’ll be left with the overwhelming impression that Roger Tory
Peterson was the ‘Great Man,’ as people often referred to
him.”
--Tale
Feathers: St. Louis Audubon Society
“It is just
fun to read about and remember all we owe to this talented and dedicated
man.”
--Portneuf
Valley Audubon Society News Page
“If one of
the criteria for a good biography is that it makes you feel like you personally
knew the person profiled, then Birdwatcher most certainly is a good biography.”
--Prairie
Ice Blog
“She…
brings him to us as a very intense, dedicated and caring man,… revealing
the iconic Peterson… as a real human being….”
--Th
e eSkimmer: Southeast Volusia Audubon Society
“This fine
biography breaks much new ground and contains abundant original material….Peterson
is one of those compelling figures for whom there cannot be too many biographies
and tributes. Rosenthal’s may be the best so far.”
--Bird Watcher’s Digest
“Rosenthal delves into lesser-known aspects of what Peterson did
with his fame…. The book is very well written…. The Peterson
stories just keep coming and they are just fun to read.”
--California
Least Tern: Newsletter of the El Dorado Audubon Society
“If you want to know all about Roger Tory Peterson, his life, his
marriages, his art and his life’s work, this book is a must-read.
It’s well written and fascinating.”
--The
Wrentit: Pasadena Audubon Society
“Interviews
and quotations from correspondence relevant to major topics present important
historical insight of value far beyond the life of Peterson…. A
slice of history of the growth of birding, scientific ornithology, and
conservation during the 20th century… A gold mine of information
and insight on Peterson as well as his contemporaries in birding, conservation,
and ornithology…. A fresh perspective on the very full and complex
life of Roger Tory Peterson….”
--The Auk
“A nicely done,
thorough biography of the father of American birding, an appropriate tribute
in the 100th year of his birth.”
--Rocky
Mountain News
“You will come
away knowing much more about the man and the growth of birding into what
we know of it today. If you like birding history this is well worth the
read!”
--Long Island
Birds
“To her credit,
Rosenthal does not shy away from less attractive aspects of Peterson’s
biography…. Birdwatcher is a strong and thorough biography….
Even those familiar with Peterson ought to learn something from it.”
--A
DC Birding Blog
"Elizabeth J.
Rosenthal has provided the most detailed account of his three marriages,
driven work habits, and strenuous activities as explorer, author, photographer,
conservationist, and public figure."
--New York Review of Books
“This biography
is straightforward and fair. The whole Roger is here, warts and all….
It is the real Roger that appears in this book…. The writing throughout
is entertaining and carries the story along….”
--Creagrus
“The author…
allows the reader to get to know this interesting man…. You can
tell the author has a passion for birds by the tone of her writing.”
--BellaOnline:
the Voice of Women
“As you read
Birdwatcher, you become enthralled with how he gradually goes from just
a backyard birdwatcher to the most sought after and gifted ornithologist
in history…. If you want to walk through history with a true naturalist,
read this book.”
--Gambel’s
Tales: The Newsletter of the Sonoran Audubon Society
“The book manages
to be entertaining as well as informative…. And it serves as a sort
of history of birding – from the moment that Peterson’s first
guidebook changed the pastime forever.”
--Minneapolis
Star-Tribune
“The book is
written such that Peterson becomes a living, breathing soul…. Rosenthal’s
book is excellent…. As you read the book, you will undoubtedly come
to realize that you knew Roger all along.”
--The
Yellowbill: Newsletter of the Fresno Audubon Society
“Rosenthal
captures the man, his passions and his intense wonder at nature and its
workings…. Thanks to Elizabeth Rosenthal for letting me see RTP
in all his splendid humanity.”
--Towheeblog
“Birdwatcher
gives the reader many interesting vignettes particularly in Peterson’s
early life.”
--Trogon
News: Huachuca Audubon Society
“This very
complete biography should be in every birder or bird lover’s library….
I thought this ultimate summary of a mythical hero of my time said about
all that could be said about the several lifetimes that he packed into
one.”
--Corpus
Christi Caller-Times
“A beautiful
tribute to the man who inspired generations of birdwatchers, naturalists,
artists and conservationists…. This is a book any bird or nature
lover would enjoy.”
--From the
Garden
“This book
is a must read for anyone interested in natural science, ornithology and
conservation…. This would make the perfect gift for the birdwatcher
on your list.”
--Explore
Western New York
“Well researched
and entertaining, Birdwatcher is a testament to the greatness
of Roger Tory Peterson.”
--British Columbia Birds
“A solid work,
thoroughly researched and thoughtfully written…. How did the son
of working-class immigrants… become a household name, a giant in
ornithology, the holder of many honorary doctorates and the recipient
of the Presidential Medal of Freedom? The details are in the book.”
--Canyon
Wrenderings: The Journal of the Black Canyon Audubon Society
“Rosenthal
captures the essence of the man who combined charming wit, workaholic
habits, and a singleness of purpose into a life that was full, creative,
and often challenging to his family.”
--In Brief (Earthjustice)
“It communicates
the magic of a much-admired man who inspired countless birders. The book
shows Roger Tory Peterson’s many sides – the prolific workaholic,
author, photographer, intellectual and explorer who was also somewhat
vain and competitive.”
--Sialis
“A delightful
read, gracefully written…. It begins with Peterson’s birth
and ends with his death; in between we learn about his fortes and his
flaws….”
--Aimophila
Adventures
“Rosenthal
skillfully takes us through the stages of Peterson’s emergence not
just as a game-changing field guide author but as a world-renowned naturalist
and conservationist, including aspects of his family, his associates,
and his travels and the influence they had on him….I think that
anyone seeking insight into one of the most important and influential
figures in 20th-century birding and natural history will enjoy this book
immensely.”
--BRDPICS:
Bill Schmoker’s Nature & Birding Blog
“One would
hardly expect the biography of a birdwatcher to be a page-turner, yet
Elizabeth J. Rosenthal has managed to present the long life of Roger Tory
Peterson… as a lively, fascinating, and, yes, exciting story.”
--Bas
Bleu
"This thorough,
lively biography takes us deep into Peterson's life – his friendships,
family, travels, and fascination with nature."
--Birder's World
"A gem…. Rosenthal dug deeply in her exploration of this rather
complicated man."
-Portland
Press Herald
"In nineteen
chapters, the author takes us through six selected aspects of his path
to fame, revealing not only his great strengths and achievements, but
also his weaknesses and failures…. Often overlooked by casual birders,
Peterson's contributions to the cause of bird and habitat conservation
are extensively covered in this biography."
--Rosyfinch
Ramblings
"Anybody interested
in birding knows Peterson, and Rosenthal brings the name to life with
this robust and deeply-detailed portrait of his life."
--The
Clueless Gardener
"With detailed
conversations and ongoing commentary, we find out some of the 'dark secrets'
often ignored in lighter depictions of Peterson's life story."
-- Birdfreak
Blog
"An affectionate
look at the person who became known as the Audubon of the 20th century."
-- Town & Country
"This biography
is admirably thorough.... She explored Peterson's influences and complexities,
ensuring a nuanced, not always favorable view of this icon of avian observation."
-- 10,000
Birds Blog
"A definitive
biography.... Through extensive interviews with Peterson's relatives,
friends and fans, Rosenthal conveys the icon's personality."
- Wildbird
"Rosenthal's
portrait is direct and thorough but highly readable."
-- The
Huntsville Times
"Rosenthal masterfully
weaves together the many voices of her interviewees, creating a seamless
narrative of Peterson's entire life.... She has done all nature enthusiasts
a great service with Birdwatcher, a volume that will be cherished by many
for a long, long time."
-- Tigrina
Times
"Birdwatcher
is a well-written and enjoyable look at the life of the most famous birder
in history. After reading this biography, I certainly know much more about
Roger Tory Peterson's life and accomplishments. But what's more, I feel
like I got to know the man himself. If you would like to do the same,
this book is a great way to do so."
-- The
Birder's Library
"Through Birdwatcher, the reader comes to understand that not only
did Peterson provide the world with the books by which to understand nature,
he was also integral in the continuing struggle to ensure that successive
generations would be able to live in a world where there was still nature
left to understand."
--Born
Again Bird Watcher
"It's a fascinating
biography filled with insights and anecdotes from more than 100 people
who knew Peterson....Some of their recollections reach back to the 1930s.
The result is a compelling read filled with stories told by the people
who knew Peterson best."
--Pittsburgh
Post-Gazette
"Rosenthal gives
us a look at the man himself, not just his career and accomplishments.
If, when watching a sports cast you pay more attention to the information
about the athletes' lives than to the game itself, this is the book for
you."
--Naturally
Curious
“I had not
read a biography about his life before reading Birdwatcher, and
I do not think I will need to read anything else, such is the detail presented
in this book.”
--The
Passionate Birder