Customer Reviews

A Rage for Falcons (Pruett Pub Co)

5 star:		(3)
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Mr. Bodio has written an outstanding overview of modern falconry. He manages to convey what it is about falconry that makes falconers put up with the heartache of hunting with raptors. As a bonus, Mr. Bodio's writing is a joy to read. It is both funny and informative. This is definitely *not* a how-to book, but instead gives a good overview of what falconry is like, and what a prospective falconer can expect.

Stephen Bodio is one of my favorite writers--definitely my favorite nature writer--and this books captures the essence of the ancient sport of falconry. This is not a manual; it's an essay that helps to explain why anyone would go through so much effort just to share in the privilege of hunting in partnership with a wild animal. (No other modern sport allows one to do this.)This is a book that can be read and enjoyed by anyone, falconer or not, but the falconer will appreciate some of the insights Bodio has--for instance, when he describes the infamous goshawk. I recommend this to anyone who wants to learn what falconry is, or who is seriously considering taking up hawks. It is fun, it is informative, and it will stay with you for a long time.

When I first became interested in falconry, I, like most people, wanted to learn everything I could on the subject. This book covers several aspects of falconry, such as the history and the raptors used in it, and moves on to many personal stories. This is NOT a "how-to" book. Bodio has delivered a wonderfully entertaining and quite creatively written book that I highly recommend to any aspiring or long-time falconer. You won't be disappointed!
--Lauren