Bird Lives

Synopsis

This work on Charlie "Bird" Parker offers a picture of not only of the saxophonist-composer as an artist and as a human being, but also of zeitgeist and the musical/social setting that produced him. It shows his complex personality; his great appetites; the extent of his influence; and his work.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Boy and the Birds

* Introduces Bird, a boy born into a family of musicians, who discovers his passion for nature and birds.
* Bird befriends a talking starling named Frederick, who teaches him about the language of birds.
* Example: Bird observes different bird species and learns their unique calls, such as the mockingbird's mimicry and the sparrow's cheerful chirps.

Chapter 2: The Birdman

* Bird meets Mr. Howard, a retired professional ornithologist known as the "Birdman," who becomes his mentor.
* The Birdman teaches Bird about bird identification, anatomy, and behavior.
* Example: Bird accompanies the Birdman on field trips to study migratory patterns and observe rare species, such as the elusive warbler.

Chapter 3: The Bird Watchers

* Bird joins the Audubon Society and connects with other bird enthusiasts.
* He participates in bird counts and banding projects to contribute to scientific research.
* Example: Bird helps band a group of songbirds, recording their measurements and marking them with unique bands to track their movements.

Chapter 4: The Avian Ambassadors

* Bird becomes a "bird ambassador," educating the public about the importance of birds and their conservation.
* He gives presentations and lectures, sharing his knowledge and inspiring others to appreciate birds.
* Example: Bird leads a nature walk for school children, showcasing the diverse birdlife in a local park and discussing the threats they face from habitat loss.

Chapter 5: The Bird's Journey

* Bird embarks on a solo journey to explore remote bird habitats around the world.
* He encounters exotic species, such as hummingbirds in Ecuador and parrots in Costa Rica.
* Example: Bird visits the Amazon rainforest and is amazed by the symphony of bird songs, from the haunting cries of toucans to the playful calls of macaws.

Chapter 6: The Bird's Legacy

* Bird's lifelong dedication to birds leaves a lasting mark.
* He establishes a bird sanctuary and inspires future generations of nature lovers.
* Example: Bird's writings and photographs become valuable resources for ornithologists and environmentalists, contributing to the conservation of bird species for years to come.