Join us at the book launch of 'Encounters with corvids' by Dr Fionn Ó Marcaigh (words) and Aga Grandowicz (illustrations)

Encounters with corvids is out. Join us at the launch to celebrate this wonderful exploration of our smartest birds (and this year's bestseller in our online shop).

'Unkind collective nouns and ominous screen depictions are rejected in this glowing tribute to corvids. The book is part travelogue of the places around the country Fionn Ó Marcaigh has gone for his work with the birds. Ó Marcaigh has a lovely style, knowledgeable without being preachy and full of warm anecdotes and sharp observation. His enthusiasm for these much-misunderstood birds is infectious, and he leaves us with a reminder of our responsibility to consider all the creatures of the world we share: “People often treat corvids unfairly... if they make us uncomfortable, it is because we are unused to looking at a bird and having it look back at us, taking our measure.'
Ger Siggins, The Irish Daily Mail

'An enlightening book for adults about seven species of common Irish birds. It features stunning illustrations from Aga Grandowicz, which bring personality to the rooks and ravens that Fionn O'Marcaigh introduces us to'.
Sara Keating, The Irish Times

'In each bite-sized chapter, the author, a zoologist, shares first-hand stories and anecdotes that attest to the intriguing ways of these most intelligent birds. With a gentle way of telling, this endearing little book reveals the wonders of these much maligned and hugely underestimated birds.'
Anja Murray, The Irish Examiner

📖 Join us at the launch event on the 7th of May 2025 in The Gutter Bookshop, Temple Bar, Dublin at 6.30pm for a chat about the book's creation, book signings, author meet and greets, and a Q&A session with the author and our special guest – Niall Hatch of BirdWatch Ireland. Please RSVP via Eventbrite here, so we know how many refreshments to prepare.

About the Author

Dr Fionn Ó Marcaigh is a zoologist from Dublin, Ireland. He received his PhD from Trinity College Dublin in 2023, for a thesis on the evolution of birds on islands. Fionn has studied birds in Indonesia and Madagascar, as well as many parts of Ireland. His previous publications have consisted mostly of technical publications in scientific journals. ‘Encounters with corvids’ is his first book.

About the Illustrator

Aga Grandowicz is a highly prolific, entrepreneurial, and multi-skilled art director, graphic designer, illustrator, artist, and marketer. Since 2016, she has been focusing on drawing wildlife for non-fiction books and biodiversity-related organisations. You can see her work on aga-grandowicz.com and agrand.ie

Encounters with corvids was created with financial support from the Arts Council Ireland.