When I first heard about The Backyard Bird Chronicles by Amy Tan, I honestly didn’t know what to expect. Like many, I knew her as the author of The Joy Luck Club, not a backyard birder with a sketchbook. But this book? It surprised me in the best way.
It’s part illustrated journal, part naturalist memoir, and part creative retreat in paper form. It doesn’t read like a field guide, but more like sitting on a porch with a thoughtful friend who can't stop gushing about the latest chickadee drama.
It also fits perfectly into my own nature journaling practice, which I've been working to expand beyond drawing plants and landscapes. The detailed bird sketches, the narrative-style entries, and the mix of art and curiosity remind me so much of what I try to capture in my own journals. If you’re into drawing birds, sketching nature, or even just exploring nature journaling as a creative habit, you’ll likely find this book a grounding, inspiring read.
The Backyard Bird Chronicles by Amy Tan: First Impressions
The first thing that stood out to me was how personal the book felt. It’s not about “teaching” birding. Instead, it’s an invitation to observe, to feel wonder again, and to make drawing and journaling a daily rhythm. Amy Tan began the book in 2016 during a time of deep personal and cultural unrest, and the entries reflect a kind of therapeutic discovery. Her humor, vulnerability, and curiosity shine through every bird note and sketch.
The drawings? So full of personality.
The robins aren’t just robins. They’re annoyed neighbors. The scrub jays are mischievous little gangsters. There’s even commentary on hummingbird spats and crow courtships that made me laugh out loud. But it’s not just about birds—it’s about the act of watching and recording the world, which makes this book a gem for anyone who journals or sketches from life.
Key Points
- This book pairs beautifully with any nature journaling habit, especially if you're learning how to observe animals more thoughtfully. If you're new to the practice, check out my guide to nature journaling basics.
- The illustrations offer an honest look at what it means to draw from life. They're expressive, full of charm, and far from perfect—which is the point. They remind me a bit of the work in The Laws Sketchbook for Nature Journaling.
- Perfect inspiration for starting your own bird-focused journal. For ideas on how to get going, browse through some of these nature journaling prompts.
What I Loved About the Book
There are a few parts of this book that stood out to me as especially meaningful—both as a reader and as someone who journals and sketches regularly. Each of these felt like a small nudge to keep noticing, keep drawing, and keep showing up on the page.
A journal that feels like yours
Each page is a single entry—a moment in time. You can open anywhere and find a thoughtful observation, a small sketch, or a tiny bird drama. It’s not a book you have to read cover to cover. That made it ideal for slow mornings with coffee or winding down at night.
It reminded me how much joy I get from keeping a nature journal. There’s something powerful about turning ordinary daily bird sightings into art and story. I’ve started doing more quick entries on my own balcony since reading this. It gave me permission to make my journal more about noticing and less about being perfect.
Unexpected humor
There’s a real sense of delight woven throughout this book. I found myself laughing aloud at some of the characterizations Tan gives the birds—not in a cutesy way, but in a “yes, I’ve seen a mockingbird act exactly like that” kind of way. Her tone walks the line between curiosity and playfulness, which made the reading experience relaxed and engaging. It reminded me that journaling doesn't have to be serious to be meaningful.
Artistic inspiration
Even if you don’t consider yourself an artist, this book might change your mind. The illustrations are loose, observational, and full of personality. They're not polished or overly technical, and that’s what makes them so inspiring. I kept thinking, “I could try that,” and I did—pulling out my pen and sketchbook that same day. If you’ve been meaning to sketch more or want to learn how to draw animals from life, this book gives you a gentle push.
Who This Book Is Perfect For
This isn’t a book for just one kind of reader. I found it hit a sweet spot between creativity, mindfulness, and quiet discovery. Depending on your interests or season of life, this book can meet you in different ways.
Artists exploring nature
Whether you're already into drawing nature or you're just learning how to sketch outdoors, this book will fit right into your creative practice. It’s approachable and charming without feeling like a how-to book.
Anyone needing quiet connection
I picked this book up during a stressful time, and it genuinely helped me slow down. Reading a few entries in the evening became a small ritual. If you're looking for a way to reconnect with the natural world or simply want something that eases you back into quiet observation, I think you’ll appreciate it.
New nature journalers
If you’ve been curious about birding or journaling but feel intimidated by fancy field guides or scientific terms, this book is a gentle entry point. It’s about looking out your window and noticing. That’s it. And if you want to take it further, I’d recommend browsing these nature journaling supplies and trying some watercolor nature journaling.
A Few Critiques (from a Friendly Reader)
While I loved the book overall, I will say it may not be for everyone. If you're looking for scientific birding info or want a reference guide, this isn't that. It’s a personal account, not a field manual. It’s more about how birds feel and behave than about identification and biology.
That said, it reminded me to let go of the need to make every journal page “useful.” The point is not utility—it’s connection. It’s presence. That shift has made my own journaling practice feel more alive.
Final Thoughts
I’ve already bought a second copy of this book to gift a friend. That should tell you something. It’s the kind of book that invites you to slow down, grab a pen, and sit quietly near a window or garden. I think it pairs beautifully with any of these creative nature journaling excursions, and it might just get you to see your backyard birds in a new light.
Is The Backyard Bird Chronicles a field guide?
No, it’s more of a journal-style book. It reads like personal entries from Amy Tan's sketchbook, not a scientific or taxonomic guide. If you want a traditional guide, you might prefer something like The Laws Guide to Drawing Birds.
Does the book have useful information for birders?
Yes and no. If you're an experienced birder looking for new IDs or behaviors, maybe not. But if you're a backyard observer or casual birder who enjoys storytelling and reflection, this book has a lot to offer.
Is this a good gift for nature lovers?
Absolutely. Especially for someone who journals, sketches, or watches birds casually. I’d also recommend pairing it with A Field Guide to Nature Journaling for a more comprehensive gift set.
Can kids enjoy this book?
It depends on the kid. The drawings are inviting and some entries are light and humorous, but the overall tone is reflective and best suited for teens or adults. If you’re looking to teach kids, check out how to teach nature journaling.
Where can I see more examples like this?
You can explore more nature journaling examples or bird-focused journaling ideas to keep the momentum going after reading this book.