I was quite smitten with this book and it was unlike anything I've read before. Adrian Mandrick is a successful anesthesiologist, a husband, father, avid birder, and last but not least, a painkiller addict. Adrian has a good heart but is full of imperfections and all of these flaws are on full display for us readers.

The story starts right before Adrian's life begins to take a turn for the worse. Adrian had a rough childhood and finds his head is often swirling with unanswered questions. After he receives missed calls and messages from his mother (who he once loved so dearly) asking for a talk, he begins to self-medicate for his anxiety by popping pills. His addiction and state of mind causes Adrian to start making mistakes and adds fuel to the fire of his already-crumbling marriage.

His main comfort in life is his "Life List"- the all-encompassing record of the 863 bird species he has spotted and identified. After the death of his mother, Adrian goes on a relentless quest to find the extremely rare Ivory-billed Woodpecker to add to his list, no matter the cost.

This haunting tale has so many gripping aspects- birds, conservation, addiction, obsession, painful childhood memories, a crumbling marriage, and family. The writing is stunning and incredibly detailed. This story will stick with me for a long time. I can't recommend this one enough.

Thank you, Touchstone Books, for sending me this wonderful book and wildflower seeds. All opinions are my own.