Dare to Bird – 2024 Media Roundup
In 2024, Dare to Bird by Melissa Hafting was the birding book everyone was talking about. With glowing reviews, exciting interviews, and widespread praise, it’s been a year full of incredible moments. Here are some of the highlights that made it unforgettable!
WINNER! Alan Duncan Bird Conservation Award – 2024: Melissa has been nominated multiple times over the last few years for her dedication to inclusivity in birding as a beacon of change towards making the birding world more accessible and welcoming to all ages, genders, and races. Her work includes the BC Young Birders Program, Nest Box Installation Projects, and much more.
Alberta Views: Reviewed Dare to Bird, noting its unique blend of photography, social commentary, activism, and memoir:
"Drawing together environmental caution, science, social commentary and devastating personal narrative, along with an infectious enthusiasm for birds and truly exquisite photographs, Dare to Bird is a fascinating book." -Jenna Butler, Alberta Views
American Birding Association Magazine: In the December 2024 issue, the book received a substantial review by Sheridan Alford, highlighting its significance in the birding community:
"The stories in Dare to Bird are not just about birds but about life itself. They are relatable to anyone who has lived a full life intertwined with their love of birds and nature. Hafting has successfully documented the thrill, comfort, consolation, and enthusiasm that someone feels as they experience the ups and downs of life and are brought back to their happy place through birding. This book is a testament to the healing power of nature and the joy of birdwatching." -Sheridan Alford, American Birding Mazazine
Birds Canada: Praised the book as a "masterpiece of beauty, healing, and conservation," emphasizing its visual appeal and heartfelt narratives:
“Dare to Bird is a triumph, beautifully blending stunning photography, heartfelt personal narrative, and critical environmental advocacy. It’s a must-have for anyone who is passionate about birds and interested in the intersection of nature, healing, and conservation.” -Kate Dalgleish, Director of Development, Birds Canada
Publishers Weekly: Provided a review highlighting the book's celebration of birding's pleasures.
“...the main draw is Hafting’s eye-catching photos, which capture a bald eagle in flight, the male greater sage-grouse’s mating dance, and hundreds of nesting common murres on a Newfoundland cliff face. It’s a deeply personal love letter to birding.” -Publishers Weekly
Associated Press Holiday Gift Guide: Included Dare to Bird in their list of coffee table books for the holiday season.
The Narwhal: Published a Q&A with Hafting, discussing her inspiration for the book and her journey in birding.
Audubon Magazine: Featured an article highlighting how birding helped Hafting cope with personal loss and her dedication to bird conservation.
Canadian Geographic: Interviewed Hafting about the healing power of birds and her efforts to make birding more inclusive.
American Birding Association Podcast: Featured Hafting discussing her book and experiences in birding.
Your Bird Story Podcast: Hosted an episode titled "Melissa Hafting Gives Back to the Birds," where she shares insights from her book.
