Bird, Bee and Bug Houses: Homes and Habitats for Garden Wildlife

Reviewed by Sheila Bumgarner

May 1, 2025

By Susie Behar, illustrated by Esther Coombs. Button Books, 2024. 56 pages. $19.99/hardcover. Recommended for ages 6–12.

I was immediately attracted to this beautifully illustrated book perfect for introducing young people to nature or supporting the budding of a young naturalist. Each page is filled with basic information regarding homes and habitats of many creatures that are commonly seen in gardens, as well as the many threats to their survival. Readers are encouraged to connect with others to support the wildlife around them. In text and a generous use of vibrant colorful illustrations, the book explains in plain terms how factors such as climate change, invasive species, and development by humans are leading to habitat loss. The knowledge and ideas found in Bird, Bee and Bug Houses will help readers young and old discover the wonders of their local environment.

Detailed instructions make it easy for anyone to lead an activity or complete a task independently. Projects include constructing different-sized bird houses, as well as owl and bat boxes; making a recipe for bird cake; creating a water fountain; and building a garden for butterflies and honeybees, as well as a mini-pond for frogs. The sections on bug hotels and beetle banks encourage young naturalists to consider how all creatures in the wild are interconnected and that helping one species helps all. One of the most fun tips is about how to become a wildlife detective. The glossary is particularly helpful as is a list of international conservation websites.

This hardbound book is ideal to retain and enjoy for years to come. The publisher emphasizes the role of the illustrator Esther Coombs in the creation of the book, and it is obvious why. Each page is a visual delight and clearly displays the materials needed as well as the steps involved in each activity. There might be a slight language/cultural barrier for U.S. readers as both the author and illustrator are British. This book would be great for meetings with active First-day schools or intergenerational programs that want to spend more time exploring outdoors and learning about local habitats.

Sheila Bumgarner is a member of Charlotte (N.C.) Meeting. She recently retired from the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library after 35 years of service in a special collections setting.