This book contains five essays devoted to the work of Alexander Wilson (1766-1813), the Scottish-born ornithologist often described as the “Father of American Ornithology.” The edited collection completes the project initially conceived by Edward H. Burtt (emer., zoology, Ohio Wesleyan Univ.), a dedicated ornithologist who died in April 2016, before the work could be finished. Burtt focused attention on Wilson because he was a central figure in American ornithology. Although a product of the Scottish Enlightenment, Wilson rejected Greek neoclassical learning in favor of nature. The essays cover many aspects of Wilson’s life—e.g., his artistic, literary, and musical contributions stand out along with his work as a naturalist. Many of Wilson’s poems are reprinted here, often bearing an ornithological theme. Wilson is evaluated as a Scots poet, but poetry written after his emigration to America is well represented. Other essays discuss his studies of American birds, and the effect he had on the field. There are many magnificently colored plates illustrating the bird species Wilson studied and painted. They are a fitting tribute to both Wilson and Burtt, and will appeal to naturalists, ornithology students, and natural history researchers. Summing Up: Recommended. Upper-division undergraduates and above; researchers and faculty.

Choice Reviews

This book reflects the varied topics that arise in symposia covering a person’s life and work and diligently pursues their precise documentation. It is a book written by and with scholars in mind. However, much may be gleaned by those with an interest in the history of ornithology, the development of field practices, taxonomic issues, and the intersection of these with the arts of poetry and painting.

The Canadian Field-Naturalist

Combining one of the prettiest sciences, ornithology, with multiple subspecialties within eighteenth-century studies (art history, literary history, cultural studies, political history), Alexander Wilson: Enlightened Naturalist will enjoy a wide and possibly even popular audience, for it combines scholarly precision with appealing illustrations while it addresses an ever-loved topic.

Kevin L. Cope, Louisiana State University