Bugs and Birds in Origami [Paperback]

Historically, Montroll's bird models are among the best because: - They are pretty reasonable to fold, and don't rely on lots of "feather detail" which usually just means lots of tedious pleats.

- They can stand up! Many bird models will simply not stand when when complete. Most of Montroll's will and that, in my mind makes the model alot more appealing.

The birds in this book have closed backs and enough substance on their legs to stand, you will be very pleased with the results.

As far as the bugs go, if you have ever tried to fold any of the bugs from Lang's "Origami Insects and their Kin." you will be quite happy with what Montroll has to offer here. Using nothing more than 10-inch kami, an intermediate folder should be able to handle anything in this book.

Even after getting this one, I cannot help but wonder what he will come up with next.

A general comment is that is book's models is of intermediate standard, similar in standard and style to Montroll's recent books. The birds can be classified as slightly below the intermediate standard suitable for beginners who wants to try something a bit more difficult. Compared to his first book "Origami for the Enthusiasts" and "Animal Origami for the Enthusiasts", Montroll's two outstanding books, the models within are of slightly lower standard. I believe Montroll is capable of doing better that is why I keep looking forward to his new books and purchasing every one in the market.

In this book, Montroll tackle the subject on insects which he has yet to do so in other books. Although the final product's standard is below what I expected, nevertheless, the insects have all the necessary body parts and they are not too difficult to fold. I have seen some of Montroll's insects and I had high hopes when I saw the title of his new book.

For birds, you will find models on goose, cardinal, crow, snipe, ibis, flamingo, ostrich, pheasant, quetzal, pelican, turkey, woodpecker, goose with outstretched wings, pigeon, humming bird, vulture, robin, crane, parrot and stork. None of these models caught my eye and cause me to sit down immediately to fold it. My favourites are pheasant, humming bird, pigeon and cardinal. I like folding birds.

For insects, you find scavenger beetle, ladybird, fly, spider, wasp, long-horned beetle, earwing and butterfly. Again nothing here caught my eye. Sorry if I am difficult to please. I cannot help but compare this to Kawahata's Insects.

Overall, if I were to compare this book with other Montroll's books, I will give this 3.5 out of 5 but compare with other origami books in the market, I will give this a 4.5 out of 5. Hence I rate this with 5 stars.

This book is still a good investment for origami enthusiasts.