Swoop Sing Perch Paddle: Birds by Carry Akroyd

SHORTLISTED FOR THE WAINWRIGHT PRIZE FOR ILLUSTRATIVE BOOKS Swoop Sing Perch Paddle brings together 132 screenprints by renowned wildlife artist Carry Akroyd, celebrating British birds in all their colour and charm. Originally created for The Oldie’s Bird of the Month column, Carry’s vibrant prints transport us through the seasons and across the country, from coast to coast and through forests, fields, back gardens and town centres. As a self-described ‘bird-noticer’, Carry’s work reveals her keen observation of birds and their behaviour and her lifelong love of the landscapes they frequent. From a party of gregarious, seed-eating siskins to the poised peregrine perched high on a cathedral, each of her artworks is packed with personality. Carry’s joyful prints are accompanied by succinct, entertaining texts from John McEwen, her long-time Bird of the Month collaborator and co-author of A Sparrow’s Life’s as Sweet as Ours, and their beautiful new collection is a delight for birdwatchers and art lovers alike.