1) Birds Color by Color: A Visual Guide to the Beauty and Science of Color in the Avian World. 2026. Rizzoli Universe. Hardbound: 256 pages.
PUBLISHER’S SUMMARY: Cardinals, blue jays, yellow-bellied sapsuckers, ruby-throated
hummingbirds, green honeycreepers: color is often the very first feature
that captures our attention. Yet only recently have ornithologists
begun to unravel the mysteries behind birds’ brilliant plumage and
biological processes that produce such vivid hues. Although scientists
have made remarkable progress, much of this knowledge remains out of
reach for general readers. This book bridges that gap by showcasing the
dazzling spectrum of bird coloration and explaining, in clear and
accessible language, how birds achieve their remarkable colors.
Richly
illustrated with stunning artwork and photography, the book is divided
into two parts. Part One explores the science of color in feathers.
Chapters examine how coloration varies within a species and how these
variations can signal sex, age, and individual identity. This section
also considers how color can function both as camouflage and as a bold
display that attracts mates or deters rivals.
Part Two presents a
color-coded gallery of more than 200 species, spanning the spectrum
from red to violet—and including brown, black, white, and multicolored
birds. Each entry highlights how particular colors arise, explains their
biological purpose (whether camouflage, species recognition, or
courtship), and features a concise fact file listing common and
scientific names, distribution, habitat, size, and coloration.
RECOMMENDATION: A well illustrated overview of bird coloration.
2) Williams, David B.. In the Range of Fire and Ice: A Human and Natural History of Washington’s Cascades. 2026. Mountaineers Books. Hardbound: 304 pages. Price:
PUBLISHER’S SUMMARY: Blending human and natural history into a vivid portrait of one of North America’s most dynamic landscapes, In the Range of Fire and Ice is a lively, groundbreaking exploration of Washington’s Cascade Range. Drawing on conversations with anthropologists, park rangers, ecologists, and climate scientists, as well as firsthand experience, award-winning author David B. Williams brings readers into the mountains to uncover stories etched in the landscape over millennia.
From traditional Indigenous huckleberry harvesting grounds and ancient footpaths to erupting volcanoes, shifting glaciers, and forgotten mining camps, In the Range of Fire and Ice reveals the Cascades as a place of both deep time and constant change. While past logging, mining, and fires left lasting scars, the Cascades also tell powerful stories of recovery and resilience--returning wolverines and wolves, the remarkable rebirth of Mount St. Helens, and growing stewardship in the face of climate change. Through rich storytelling and careful research, Williams invites readers to see the Cascades not only as mountains, but as a living, evolving realm of fire, ice, and hope.
RECOMMENDATION: If you enjoyed the author's other works, you should enjoy this one!
3)Winter Twigs of the Pacific Northwest: Common Trees and Shrubs. 2026. Skipstone. Paperback: 144 pages.
PUBLISHER’S SUMMARY: Winter Twigs of the Pacific Northwest
turns the bare, quiet winter months into a season of discovery. When
leaves disappear and forests seem still, expert forager Natalie
Hammerquist encourages us to take a closer look and uncover the hidden
world of color, texture, and detail in dormant trees and shrubs.
This
accessible, visually rich guide shows readers how to distinguish and
identify fifty deciduous trees and shrubs found in the Pacific
Northwest. From buckthorn to Oregon ash to thimbleberry, learn to
identify twigs, bud shapes, bark patterns, branch forms, and any
lingering berries, leaves, or cones. Each profile features Hammerquist’s
signature macro photography and clear annotations, along with notes to
deepen your appreciation for each plant, including edible or medicinal
uses, wildlife value, growing at home, and traditional crafts.
Designed
for foragers, hikers, gardeners, and nature lovers of all levels, this
pocket-sized book turns cold, leafless walks into engaging adventures,
helping readers confidently recognize and appreciate the resilient trees
and shrubs that shape the winter landscape.
RECOMMENDATION: A handy sized guide to winter plant identification for the region.
