Field Notes from an Unintentional Birder: A Memoir

The author has nonchalantly led a fascinating life. Refugee, immigrant, born into a family of concert musicians, Ms. Zarankin has existed in an unusual intersection of cultures and circles throughout her life. The story of how she became a birder is filled with dizzying parallels and soaring analogies to the story of her own life thus far. It is the story of learning to be part of new cultures, of facing one's fears, of finding beauty in the mundane. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and the casual, wistful, funny voice of its author. And, though I'm not a birder, it will certainly cause me to give more than a passing glance to the ornithological inhabitants of my own neighborhood.

It’s challenging for me to finish a book. I probably have 30 books around my house started but not finished but I had no trouble finishing Field Notes. My birding journey has been similar to the author’s in that a mild interest grew into close to an obsession. I also have a musical background and have met several musician birders in the field. Are these two interests related? If you’re interested in birding or nature, read this book. It’s well written and very entertaining.

A great read for anyone who appreciates (or hopes to appreciate) the everyday beauty around them. It's especially engaging if you've taken up birding recently, as many of us have this year. The author's discovery of the world of birds is packed with fun and funny moments that birders of any level can relate to. Her life story is unusual and also very relatable for anyone who loves music, art, literature, or is simply a human being. Recommended.

It took me a little while to warm up to the author, but when I did I liked her vulnerabilities and that ended up making the story that much better. Well told. A nice way to see the growth of a birder. I chose this rating because of the warmup period in the beginning. I almost stopped reading. I would recommend this book to beginner and expert birder alike and those thinking of becoming a birder.

In addition to birding I also have an interest in Russia. I have read several books by Russian emigrants. This tops then! Love the way her culture and family and Russia intertwine in magical ways.Thanks Julia

...was a gift, which was appreciated.

A delightful, humorous, insightful read for anyone who appreciates birds and the idea of birding.

Good composition, wonderful language, humor and positivity make the book enjoyable.

I don’t really know how to write a book review, all I know is that if you have found yourself accidentally or by chance interested in bird watching, you are not alone. I believe to some degree we are all a bit like the author and see ourselves within this journey we call life / birding. Not that this hobby is obsessive, but it is a bit addictive; to what extent varies for everyone.I can identify with Julia’s plight even though my knowledge in birds is far less than hers. A very enjoyable read, see how many of her birds / metaphors resonates with you as her story unfolds.

I liked the randomness of bird watching through someone eases eyes. I really enjoyed how much of her own life she added and modelled with bird watching. I also enjoyed how she evolved as a person and a spouse.I got the book because I just retired and was wondering if bird watching might be for me. I'm not sure I have the patience or tolerance of cold. Still it left me with a good feeling about maybe summertime bird watching....

Entertaining and relatable, even if you're not a birder. It may just get you started though, and that's not a bad thing.

You'll never see the view out of your window the same again!Funny, touching, inspiring, a story that spans from the Ukraine across Canada....Margaret Atwood tweeted her love of this book, and she didn't miss the mark!A must read for 2020.

I know the author.. Would buy again