Nicolas Bentley’s Book of Birds, An Avian Alphabet, 1965 (First Edition)

A wonderfully sharp and playful first edition of Nicolas Bentley’s Book of Birds, published in 1965 by André Deutsch. Illustrated and written by Nicolas Bentley, this is not a sweet, sentimental bird book, it’s witty, dry, and quietly brilliant.

Bentley’s drawings feel loose and confident, full of character and gentle irreverence, paired with verses that make you smile in that very British, under-your-breath way. It’s the kind of book you pick up “just for a look” and end up reading cover to cover.

A beautiful object in its own right, for bird lovers, illustration admirers, and anyone who enjoys humour with a little bite.

Vintage condition: In great condition, small tear to the dust cover.