Illuminated by exquisite photographs of eleven species of birds, a spareand elegantpoem inspires readers to open their wings and soar.

Baby robins, open-beaked in their nest. Mallards winging to a new clime. Whether chickadees or cardinals, sparrows or starlings, here are commonly seen birds in their natural settings, captured in photographs of rare beauty and grace. In perfect synchrony, a lyrical narrative evokes images of play and flight, perseverance and trust.At the end, readers will find profiles of the featured species. This stunning book is an ideal gift for bird lovers of all ages, graduates, or anyone embarking on an adventure. Lieder's breathtaking photography carries the book's message of growth. Frost's poem encourages youngsters to leave the nest, "trusting" the sky to "hold you / as you learn to fly." ... All-around gorgeous; Frost and Lieder again showcase the splendor of nature through the happy marriage of literal and figurative images.
—Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

Frost and Lieder follow Step Gently Out with another winning combination of sensitive verse and striking photography, this time taking an inspirational approach that makes the book equally well-suited for graduation gift-giving and moments of everyday encouragement.
—Publishers Weekly (starred review)

With a gentle text and dramatic visuals, this book has much to offer beginning birders, science classes, and storytimes for very young listeners.
—School Library Journal

For bird lovers of all ages, this small book offers a glimpse of feathered friends not otherwise often seen so close-up.
—Booklist

A superb intersection of science, literature, and visual arts, this book can be used to initiate studies of flight, enthuse bird watchers, or inspire creative classroom projects.
—School Library Journal