Birdhouses of the World

Along with a brief history of birdhouses, author Anne Schmauss lets readers know what kinds of birds live in birdhouses and the types of structures each kind of bird is attracted to. While she features both functional and decorative birdhouses, what’s important in this quirky collection is the wow factor: Schmauss chose birdhouses that were spectacular in their creativity and sheer originality. The styles vary wildly, too, as much as human houses, from sleek modern to elaborate Victorian to DIY hippie style. Included are the birdhouses of George Lucas and Martha Stewart, as well as those with funny names, like the Hobbit House. The countries represented are: England, USA, Canada, Denmark, Japan, Lebanon, the Netherlands, Germany, Egypt and Turkey.