Little Brothers of the Air

"Little Brothers of the Air" by Olive Thorne Miller is a naturalist's exploration of bird life written in the late 19th century. The text delves into the nesting habits, behaviors, and interactions of various bird species, particularly focusing on the kingbird and its family dynamics. The book appeals to readers interested in ornithology, nature observation, and the intricate relationships within avian communities. The opening of the work introduces readers to the intimate process of observing a kingbird's nest during its nesting season. The narrator shares their observations of the kingbird pair, documenting the construction of their nest, the peculiar actions of neighboring birds, and the unfolding drama as the kingbird takes on the role of protector and partner. Through careful watching, the narrator reveals the bird's unique personalities and family interactions, setting the stage for a broader exploration of bird life and emphasizing the significance of patience and observation in nature study. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Harriet Mann Miller was an American author, naturalist, and ornithologist. She was one of the first three women raised to elective membership in the American Ornithologists' Union. Miller wrote stories for leading magazines. At the start of her career, her articles appeared under the pen name "Olive Thorne" while after marriage, she used the signature of "Olive Thorne Miller". Her books include: Little Folks in Feathers and Fur (1879), Queer Pets at Marcy’s (1880), Little People of Asia (1882), Birds’ Ways (1885), In Nesting Time (1888), and also a serial story entitled, "Nimpo’s Troubles", published in the St. Nicholas Magazine, in 1874.