Introducing 'Encounters with corvids' – a new book by Fionn Ó Marcaigh and Aga Grandowicz

April 05, 2025

I'm thrilled to finally share something very special with you – a new book that’s been quietly taking shape behind the scenes: Encounters with Corvids, written by the brilliant Dr Fionn Ó Marcaigh and illustrated and designed by yours truly.

This has been one of the most enjoyable and meaningful projects I’ve worked on. Dr Ó Marcaigh’s thoughtful, lyrical writing brought each bird to life in a way that made the creative process feel like a genuine collaboration between science, story, and art.

Supported by the Arts Council Ireland, Encounters with Corvids explores the lives of Ireland’s seven native corvids – the rook, jay, hooded crow, jackdaw, chough, magpie, and raven. These are some of the most intelligent and fascinating birds in the world, and in this book, you’ll find a rich blend of scientific observation, personal stories, and folklore that celebrates their mystery and charm.

The book will be published by Natural World Publishing on April 27, 2025, and is now available for pre-order via The Gutter Bookshop.

You’re warmly invited to join us for the launch event on May 7, 2025, at 6:30 PM, also at The Gutter Bookshop.

If you’re a bird enthusiast, nature lover, or simply someone who appreciates beautifully crafted books, I hope you’ll have a look. Every pre-order helps get this book into the hands of more readers – and your support truly means the world.