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The Curious Life of the Cuckoo

The Curious Life of the Cuckoo - Main image
$6.7 $10 In stock

Category: Books

In this elegantly illustrated hardback, John Lewis-Stempel explores the enigmatic world of the cuckoo - a bird defined by its elusive nature and "alchemical" ability to mimic the eggs of others. Shrouded in myth and often mistaken for a hawk, the cuckoo remains a beloved cultural icon despite its deceptive habits, serving as the definitive herald of spring. With his trademark lyrical prose, Lewis-Stempel delves into the folklore and science of this strange countryside resident, celebrating the bird whose unmistakable call finally signals the end of winter.

Product code: BK0168.

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Customer Reviews (5.0 / 5 · 5 reviews)

Emma X. ★★★★★

I'm only a few chapters in, but the way Lewis-Stempel unpacks the cuckoo's egg-mimicry trick is genuinely fascinating, not dry at all. The hardback feels substantial in hand and the illustrations really pull you into its secretive world.

Miles ★★★★★

The illustrations in this hardback are stunning—really brings the cuckoo's mimicry to life. I’ve been captivated by how Lewis-Stempel weaves natural history with a sense of mystery.

John M. ★★★★★

I had no idea cuckoos were this devious until I read about their egg-mimicking tricks in chapter three. The hardback feels lovely in the hand too, and the illustrations make it an easy book to leave out on the coffee table.