The Private Lives of Public Birds introduced Jack Gedney to bird lovers in 2022, and it quickly became a Heyday bestseller; it was praised by Amy Tan, Donald Kroodsma, John Muir Laws, Library Journal, and more. Like Public Birds, The Birds in the Oaks offers highly engaging nature essays in Gedney's literary style. 16 species are highlighted, each with an illustration. Sectioned by general habitat. Certainly for readers who love the style of animal books such as The Genius of Birds, but Gedney is focusing on bird life in a specific ecosystem.  Gedney's writing style, full of literary references and fascinating comparisons, goes well beyond mere facts about each species. It shows a deep care for the emotional connection one feels when watching or listening to these birds: what it's like to find resolute connection with a bird in the woods. What occurs is a satisfying examination of the personality of each bird.  Gedney quotes Emerson in the book's preface: "Set down nothing that will not help somebody," and states, "I have found few activities more affirming than walking among the oaks, with my ears open to the birds. In these pages, I hope to convey some fragment of their chanting, that it may be of help to you."