Carving & Painting the American Kestrel: For Beginners and Professionals

If I had an ounce of talent in woodcarving, I would love to have Floyd Scholz—the low-key, affable host of this entertaining double-disc guide—as a mentor. Scholz, a much sought-after instructor of decorative bird carving whose seminars at the Vermont Raptor Academy are often sold out years in advance, here presents his techniques for carving and painting one of his favorite birds, the male American kestrel, one of the smallest falcons in the world. On the first disc, Scholz describes the kestrel in detail (with one perched on his hand) and later demonstrates the basics of carving, while on the second disc he covers the painting and finishing of the piece. Included in the package is a very informative diagram of the kestrel that prospective woodcarvers will find easy to follow. Recommended. Aud: P. (J. Carlson)