Review of THE BACKYARD BIRD CHRONICLES
by Johny McFliggen, PhD Literature & Business, Oxford
In a serendipitous twist worthy of the most whimsical of nature's caprices, Amy Tan, the literary architect behind "The Joy Luck Club," has ventured into the realm of non-fiction with "The Backyard Bird Chronicles." At first glance, one might wonder what could possibly draw Tan away from her familiar tales of familial complexity and cultural identity to the ostensibly tranquil world of birdwatching. But as it turns out, this collection of essays and drawings is not merely about ornithology; it's an exploration of peace, presence, and the profound interconnectedness of life.
Tan's essays are akin to the avian subjects she so meticulously observes — delicate yet vibrant, understated yet teeming with life. Much like Mary Oliver's poetic reflections on nature, Tan has an uncanny ability to extract the sublime from the everyday. Her meditative prose weaves seamlessly with her illustrations, reminiscent of Audubon's exquisite work, but with a personal touch that adds warmth and intimacy. It's as if she invites the reader into her garden sanctuary, offering a cup of tea and a pair of binoculars.
In true Amy Tan fashion, these essays delve beyond mere descriptions of feathers and flight patterns. They are infused with reflections on life's elusive search for peace. There are moments when her observations of a warbler's migration become metaphors for personal journeys, or when the frenetic energy of a hummingbird mirrors the chaotic pulse of modern existence. Here, Tan echoes the likes of Helen Macdonald's "H is for Hawk," where the personal narrative is inseparable from the ornithological.
What truly sets "The Backyard Bird Chronicles" apart from typical birding tomes is Tan's signature blend of humor and insight. She writes with a wit that recalls Bill Bryson's travelogues — unpretentious yet full of delightful revelations. The essays are peppered with candid anecdotes that showcase Tan's self-deprecating charm and her keen observational skills. Her encounters with avian visitors are often as much about self-discovery as they are about bird identification.
For those familiar with Tan's fictional repertoire, this foray into non-fiction may seem unexpected. Yet, upon reflection, it makes perfect sense. The themes that permeate her novels — connection, identity, and the quest for understanding — are all present in these chronicles. Just as "The Joy Luck Club" explores the interplay between past and present, "The Backyard Bird Chronicles" contemplates the harmony between humanity and nature.
Tan’s work can be seen as a cousin to Richard Louv’s "Last Child in the Woods," which champions the restorative power of nature. But whereas Louv presents an argument, Tan offers an invitation. Her book is not merely for birders or nature enthusiasts; it's for anyone seeking solace in a world that often feels too loud and too fast.
In "The Backyard Bird Chronicles," Amy Tan reminds us that sometimes the greatest stories are unfolding right outside our windows — if only we take a moment to pause and listen. It's a gentle nudge towards mindfulness, a celebration of life's small wonders, and ultimately, a testament to the enduring power of nature to heal and inspire. Simply put, it's a book that sings.
Purchase Link: THE BACKYARD BIRD CHRONICLES on Amazon
