Think I may be getting in a little late about this, but I think it's really
difficult to decide what kind of a "present" to give to a beginning birder.
I'm addicted to Kaufman's work (and some other old-timers!) and now have to
add the new Sibley's. But if the recipient lives here in the northwest, I
would probably start him or her with the 3rd version of "Western Birds". My
next recommendation would be of the 3rd (?) ed. of the National Geographic
Soc.'s guide. Look forward to hearing other replies. The library grows
every year! Murray

Murray Hansen
Graham, WA
MurrayH at aol.com