Bird Brain

A myth-busting exploration of corvid intelligence from one of the world’s foremost authorities, revealing a new understanding of both the animal and human mind

What if one of the most intelligent minds on Earth could fly?

Crows and ravens can solve multi-step puzzles, use and shape tools, remember human faces for years, and plan ahead. In this groundbreaking new book, neuroscientist Andreas Nieder reveals how these birds think, and why their intelligence is reshaping what science believes about the mind.

At the center of Bird Brain is Edgar, a crow raised in Nieder’s lab at the University of Tübingen. As Edgar grows from chick to adult, his abilities—learning, counting, decision-making—offer a rare, inside look at the cognitive world of corvids.

Crows don’t have a human-like brain. So how does Edgar do it? Nieder’s research shows that a different brain structure, the pallium, can produce surprisingly advanced forms of thought, challenging long-held ideas about intelligence and consciousness.

Smart, surprising, and deeply thought-provoking, Bird Brain will alter how you see all animals—and how you understand us.

Standard and Primary covers are widely available through general retailers. They often have higher print runs and can be cheaper, especially during sales.

In contrast, Direct Market (DM) and variant covers are primarily sold in comic shops. DM editions tend to have more limited availability and may be more valuable to collectors.

The main differences lie in artwork style, availability, price, and collector appeal. Ultimately, the choice between standard and variant covers depends on personal preference, budget, and individual collecting goals.

Comic book enthusiasts have various formats to choose from when collecting their favorite stories.
Here's a brief overview of the main types:

Omnibus

• Large, hardcover collections
• Usually contain complete runs or extensive story arcs
• Typically 800-1000+ pages
• Higher price point, often €100-€150

Oversized Hardcover (OHC)

• Similar dimensions to omnibus, but thinner
• Collect shorter runs or story arcs
• Usually 300-600 pages
• Priced between €30-€50

Hardcover (HC)

• Standard-sized hardcover books
• Collect 6-12 issues typically
• Similar dimensions to single issues, but with a hard cover
• Priced around €25-€35

Trade Paperback (TP)

• Softcover collections
• Standard comic book size
• Usually collect 4-6 issues
• Most affordable option, typically €15-€25

Other Formats

• Absolute Editions: Oversized, deluxe hardcovers (mainly DC Comics)
• Compendiums: Massive paperback collections
• Graphic Novels (OGN/GN): Original stories not previously released as single issues

The choice between these formats often depends on personal preference, budget, and collecting goals. Omnibus and OHC editions offer larger artwork and more content but at a higher price, while TPs provide a more affordable way to collect complete story arcs