The Bird Man: A Biography of John Gould

by Isabella Tree

This fascinating account of Britain’s most eminent bird illustrator was first published to wonderful reviews over a decade ago. Now, beautifully repackaged as a classic biography of an extraordinary Victorian, The Bird Man will captivate a new audience.

Genres: Biography, Natural History, Birds

256 pages, Hardcover

First published November 27, 1992

Reviews

[Diana Ashworth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting biography of John Gould. From a humble background, self educated, an explorer and bird collector, he broke into the academic establishment in the 19th century producing the definitive reference bird books of the day. This required single mindedness and a certain amount of exploitation of others including his wife and Edward Lear. An object lesson in "drive".

[Paul · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fascinating biography of a pretty unlikeable Victorian zoologist. The book provides a very particular snapshot of the Victorian age. I had no idea of Gould's influence on Darwin. I did tire of Gould's insatiable desire to kill and collect so many birds, animals and eggs though.