The book starts with an authoritative introduction on the origin, evolution, distribution, physiology and behaviour of grebes, followed by accounts of each of the 22 species: Little Grebe, Least Grebe, Australasian Grebe, Madagascar Grebe, Alaotra Grebe, Pied-Billed Grebe, Atitlan Grebe, White-Tufted Grebe, Titicaca Flightless Grebe, Hoary-Headed Grebe, New Zealand Grebe, Great Grebe, Red-Necked Grebe, Great Crested Grebe, Horned Grebe, Black-Necked Grebe, Colombian Grebe, Silvery Grebe, Junin Flightless Grebe, Hooded Grebe, Western Grebe and Clark's Grebe. For each account there are 2-3 pages of well written text, summarising salient information on distribution, population, behaviour and other aspects of the species natural history. At the end of the book there are two identification plates by Chris Rose which provide invaluable assistance on field identification features. Appendices provide data on length, weight, breeding details, status and conservation, and the meanings and derivations of grebe names.

The crowning glory of this wonderful book are the full page colour paintings of each species by Chris Rose. By depicting each grebe in its natural habitat, Rose fills each page with colour and light, magnificently evoking the water-based world of these beautiful birds. He does this without sacrificing attention to detail and accuracy in his representation of the birds themselves. The large format, generous margins and fine design and production of the book do justice to the quality of the work.

A perfect gift for anyone with a real passion for birds and their natural history.