The subject matter of BNAW is birds recorded west of the 100th meridian, north of Mexico. A brief introduction explains how to use the book (e.g., the numerous icons), including sections on watching birds and conservation. The introduction is not free of miscues: the “Ruby-throated Hummingbird” photo (p. 13) is of a Plain-capped Starthroat, and in the abundance and distribution terms (pp. 24–25) the European Starling is listed as “abundant,” while the Cattle Egret is “exotic,” and the Antillean Nighthawk (unknown in the West) is “rare.”