New Children’s Book Premieres at Beechwood Farms

Sometimes the best show is just outside your window. That’s what first-time author Lisa Donovan discovered, and she began writing about what she observed. The result is Birds in My Backyard, a whimsical introduction to a variety of birds for young children up to age 7. The book will launch on November 16 at Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve in Fox Chapel during Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania’s member appreciation day from 9 am until 5 pm. Proceeds from that day’s purchase of Birds in My Backyard will support Audubon’s mission.

Donovan recalls, “Bluebirds were ‘on guard’ on my roof top. Crows flew away at the slightest sign of me at the window—as if they were guilty of something. Geese sounded like car horns. Turkey families came bounding up to the feeders twice a day for their meals. I loved the different personalities.”

Birds in My Backyard describes 23 birds in light verse accompanied by colorful illustrations. Robins “go fishing for worms in the grass.” Hawks “play with breezes.” And Blue Jays “boss other birds.” The story begins with the birds’ Dawn Chorus and ends at dreamy dusk.

Illustrator Dee Paras created collages of hand-painted papers to bring each bird to life on the page. And for readers who want to learn more, the book features information about the Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania.

Birds in Backyard is priced at $16.99. Donovan will be available at the event to sign books.

Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania’s Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve is located at 614 Dorseyville Road in Fox Chapel. For more information, please visit www.aswp.org or call (412) 963-6100.

Lisa Donovan grew up in Greensburg, Pennsylvania, and graduated from Grove City College. She received an M.A. in Professional Writing from Carnegie Mellon University. After working in communications for various companies and clients, she volunteers—and looks out the window.

For more information about Birds in My Backyard or to plan a book event, call 845-641-8544 or email LDonovanBooks@gmail.com.