Called "flying jewels" by the early explorers, hummingbirds delight people of all ages with their antics, but many do not realize their important role in plant pollination or their usefulness in controlling insect pests like aphids and mosquitoes. Featuring stunning photographs taken by the author, "Helping the Hummingbirds" introduces children of elementary school age to the fascinating world of hummingbirds and teaches them how we can help these tiny, skilled aviators to flourish in our backyards. The print is large and the text accessible to competent elementary school readers; definitions of words that might be new are integrated into the text. There is a limited number of sentences on each page, so that children can enjoy the pictures and either read the book themselves, read it with help, or have the book read to them, depending on their age and reading ability. The main part of the book talks about the ruby-throated hummingbird, but there is a section near the back that briefly describes some of the hummingbirds found on the west coast and in southern states. Project ideas and a helpful and informative section at the end of the book are intended to engage the children and be a springboard for discussions on a number of interesting topics such as migration, the food chain, pollination and the principles of flight. This book is in the "Nature On Our Doorstep" series. "Nature On Our Doorstep" books are designed for children of elementary school age, but the real-life photos and attention to detail will make them attractive to people of all ages. Young children and their parents and grandparents will have fun learning about various aspects of nature in all its wonder and it is the author's hope that they will be inspired to learn more about life in their back yard and to actively encourage it.