Reviews
Pre-publication Reviews & Testimonials
Close Encounters with the Great Blue Heron by Frank Baker is a charming introduction to one of our most striking birds – the Great Blue Heron!
In this book, we discover that this bird is as common as it is beautiful, making it the perfect introduction to the natural world. Baker shares interesting facts about the Great Blue Heron in an engaging way, encouraging even the most novice of naturalists to notice their beauty. And for us conservationists, noticing is the first step on a journey towards caring about the environment that we share with these beautiful birds. Delightful and informative, Close Encounters is a gentle reminder that wonder isn’t only found in far-off lands – it’s waiting right in our own backyards!
– Bailey Slice Parker, Executive Director, Gills Creek Watershed Association
“Close Encounters With The Great Blue Heron” is an enlightening and refreshing read for children and adults alike. Baker’s mix of beautiful photography and educational facts makes this a must read for all ages.
I’ve been a conservation and Natural History Cinematographer for over 30 years and even I learned something new about Great Blue Herons.
– Doug Gardner, Natural History Cinematographer
Love the photography. You really capture the beauty of the Heron in its natural habitat. Your commitment to sharing nature with children is very evident in your extraordinary photos.
I love that you highlighted the vocabulary in context and then defined each word at the end. The book encourages young readers to ask questions, make thoughtful observations, and predictions. Skills that are emphasized in the SC Science Practices Standards. I think The Great Blue Heron will also move children to a better understanding of and caring for this remarkable bird.
– Linda Sinclair, Science Educator
I have known Frank Baker for a decade as an educator and a photographer. He is always thoughtful and engaging. We have enjoyed much time in the field on wildlife tours and sharing on social media throughout our careers.
In reviewing his new children’s book “Close Encounters with the Great Blue Heron,” one immediately notices Frank’s talent for teaching in addition to his stunning photography.
Rather than presenting dry scientific facts, he has broken down the life of these remarkable birds into pages of interesting behaviors that will pique a child’s curiosity. By the end, Frank has taught children more about this bird than what most adults might know.
Frank’s talent for focusing on natural behaviors is apparent and while geared toward youth, this collective portrait of a great bird, can be enjoyed at any age.
– Eric Horan, Naturalist/photographer Lowcountry Photo Safaris, Beaufort, South Carolina
As I observed the opening page, my eyes were immediately drawn to the tall, elegant statue of the blue heron. Its dignity and poise were immediately evident, and I knew my patience would not be a virtue, as I eagerly desired to experience more. Never did I imagine the life of the blue heron would prove to be so enlightening and fulfilling at this moment in time.
As the journey unfolded, I quickly discovered that Frank’s creation masterfully immerses readers in traditional core subjects and concepts.
I have always believed that learning should exist under the broad umbrella of science. After all, science incorporates math, reading, and social studies to formulate hypotheses involving variables that can only be solved through knowledge, observation, and critical thinking.
“Close Encounters with The Great Blue Heron” accommodates all styles of learning while encouraging readers to question, reflect, and engage with the material. Throughout the text, students are actively involved as they explore sequencing, life cycles, and the breathtaking photographs captured by Frank.
What a delight it was to immerse myself in “Close Encounters with The Great Blue Heron” by Frank W. Baker. As a forty-year veteran in the glorious world of education, I have witnessed the ever-changing shifts from traditional to technological approaches and everything in between. Yet I continually return to my original philosophy: what one truly experiences is not merely learned, but becomes a lifelong part of one’s very fabric.
Now, spread your wings and fly!!!