Feathers for Lunch Book Summary - Feathers for Lunch Book explained in key points

Feathers for Lunch summary

Brief summary

Feathers for Lunch is a delightful children's book by Lois Ehlert. It follows a mischievous cat as he hunts for birds, but his plans are foiled at every turn. The vibrant illustrations and simple text make it a perfect read-aloud for young kids.

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    Feathers for Lunch
    Summary of key ideas

    Exploring the Backyard

    In Feathers for Lunch by Lois Ehlert, we are introduced to a curious and mischievous cat named Sneakers. Sneakers lives in a cozy home but is always looking for adventure, especially in the backyard. One day, he manages to slip past the back door and begins his exploration of the great outdoors.

    As Sneakers ventures into the backyard, he encounters a variety of birds. Ehlert uses vibrant and engaging illustrations to depict these birds, from the bright red cardinal to the tiny hummingbird. Sneakers, being a cat, can't help but be drawn to these feathered creatures, and he begins to stalk them, his eyes gleaming with the thrill of the hunt.

    A Series of Unfortunate Events

    Unfortunately for Sneakers, his attempts to catch the birds are always foiled. He tries to pounce on a sparrow, but it flies away just in time. He chases a robin, but it escapes into a nearby bush. Each encounter leaves Sneakers with only a mouthful of feathers, and no lunch to speak of.

    Not all of Sneakers' encounters are with birds, however. He also comes across a variety of other backyard creatures, such as a squirrel, a rabbit, and a chipmunk. While he is interested in these animals, his primary focus remains on the birds. He is determined to catch one, no matter how elusive they may be.

    Learning About Birds

    Throughout his adventures, Sneakers is unknowingly providing us with a comprehensive bird-watching experience. Ehlert uses Sneakers' encounters to introduce us to a variety of bird species, their unique characteristics, and their behaviors. We learn about the different types of nests they build, the sounds they make, and the food they eat.

    As the story progresses, we begin to notice a shift in Sneakers' behavior. Instead of simply trying to catch the birds, he starts observing them. He becomes fascinated by their colors, their songs, and their graceful flight. His initial hunting instincts are replaced by a genuine appreciation for these beautiful creatures.

    A Change of Heart

    In the end, Sneakers' adventure in the backyard leads to a change of heart. He realizes that the birds are not just potential prey, but fascinating neighbors with their own lives and stories. He decides to give up his hunting pursuits and simply enjoy watching the birds from a distance.

    As Sneakers returns to the safety of his home, he carries with him a newfound respect for the birds in his backyard. He may not have caught any birds for lunch, but he has gained a valuable lesson about coexisting with the natural world. Feathers for Lunch ends on a heartwarming note, with Sneakers content to be a bird-watcher rather than a bird-catcher.

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    What is Feathers for Lunch about?

    Feathers for Lunch is a delightful children's book by Lois Ehlert. It tells the story of a mischievous house cat who sets out to catch some birds for lunch. However, things don't go as planned, and the cat ends up with just a mouthful of feathers. The book features vibrant collage illustrations and introduces young readers to various bird species.

    Feathers for Lunch Review

    Feathers for Lunch (1990) is an engaging children's book about a hungry cat eyeing a variety of birds for a tasty meal. Here's why this book stands out:
    • Featuring captivating illustrations that beautifully depict the different birds and their unique characteristics, sparking curiosity in young readers.
    • The book cleverly integrates educational content about birds' behaviors and habitats, enriching the reading experience with fun learning opportunities.
    • With its suspenseful storyline and unexpected twists, the book keeps readers on the edge of their seats, ensuring that boredom is never a possibility.

    Who should read Feathers for Lunch?

    • Children who are curious about birds and nature

    • Parents and educators looking for a fun way to teach kids about different bird species

    • Those who appreciate colorful and visually engaging picture books

    About the Author

    Lois Ehlert is a renowned author and illustrator of children's books. With a career spanning over three decades, she has created numerous beloved works that have captivated young readers. Ehlert's distinctive collage-style illustrations and engaging storytelling have made her a household name in the world of children's literature. Some of her notable books include "Chicka Chicka Boom Boom," "Planting a Rainbow," and "Color Zoo."

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    Feathers for Lunch FAQs 

    What is the main message of Feathers for Lunch?

    The main message of Feathers for Lunch is about observing nature's beauty in everyday life.

    How long does it take to read Feathers for Lunch?

    Reading Feathers for Lunch takes a short time. The Blinkist summary can be read quickly.

    Is Feathers for Lunch a good book? Is it worth reading?

    Feathers for Lunch is worth reading for its charming illustrations and engaging storyline.

    Who is the author of Feathers for Lunch?

    Lois Ehlert is the author of Feathers for Lunch.

    What to read after Feathers for Lunch?

    If you're wondering what to read next after Feathers for Lunch, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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    • The World Without Us by Alan Weisman
    • Green Illusions by Ozzie Zehner
    • Energy Myths and Realities by Vaclav Smil
    • Fukushima by David Lochbaum, Edwin Lyman, Susan Q. Stranahan and the Union of Concerned Scientists
    • The Moral Case for Fossil Fuels by Alex Epstein
    • Should We Eat Meat? by Vaclav Smil
    • Cradle to Cradle by William McDonough and Michael Braungart