Title: Owl Babies
Author: Martin Waddell
First published January 1, 1992
25 pages, Unknown Binding
ISBN: 9780744592702 (ISBN10: 0744592704)
Rating: 4.21
Overview
Denis Johnson’s Tree of Smoke takes us on a journey through the Vietnam War, following the story of Skip Sands, a spy-in-training tasked with Psychological Operations against the Vietcong. But as Skip’s famous uncle, known only as the Colonel, becomes more involved, disaster strikes.
Alongside Skip’s tale, we meet the Houston brothers, Bill and James, who leave their desert home to fight a war where truth and reality are hard to distinguish. Johnson paints a vivid picture of the human condition, exploring themes of loneliness, desperation, and the search for something greater.
A National Book Award winner, Tree of Smoke is a gripping, powerful novel that will leave you spellbound.
About the Author
Martin Waddell is a prolific writer who has penned over a hundred books for children. He has even written under a pseudonym, Catherine Sefton.
In 2004, Waddell was recognized for his exceptional writing talent and awarded the prestigious Hans Christian Andersen Award.
Editoral Review
Owl Babies by Martin Waddell is a timeless classic that has captivated readers since its publication in 1992. Waddell is a prolific author, best known for his works in the field of children’s literature.
Combining his remarkable storytelling and evocative illustrations, Owl Babies capture the hearts of readers of all ages. The story is set in the dark forest where three baby owls live with their mother.
One night, their mother sets out to hunt, leaving the young owls alone in the tree. They become anxious and start to worry when their mother does not return.
Throughout the night, they comfort and reassure each other, longing for their mother’s return. The narrative follows their emotional journey, highlighting the power of their bond and the comfort they find in each other.
Waddell’s compelling tale is an endearing depiction of family love and strength, told with a touching simplicity. The author uses straightforward language to convey complex emotions that are easily relatable to readers.
The story also skillfully navigates the themes of separation, fear, and anxiety, giving readers a way to cope with emotions that are oftentimes difficult to express. One of the standout features of Owl Babies is the stunning illustrations by Patrick Benson.
The soft and muted tones of the illustrations perfectly capture the nighttime setting, drawing readers into the story’s world. Benson’s use of shadow and light adds depth to the story, creating a visual context for the tension and anxiety felt by the young owls.
Despite its simplicity, Owl Babies leaves readers with a profound sense of warmth and reassurance. The story’s underlying messages about the power of family and connection are as relevant today as they were when the book was first published.
The book holds a special place in the hearts of parents and children alike, and it’s one of those rare stories that can be enjoyed time and time again. Overall, Owl Babies is an enchanting children’s book that succeeds on many levels.
It’s a timeless classic that easily captures the hearts of readers of all ages, making it the perfect addition to any bookshelf. The book earns its place as a treasured classic of children’s literature, and it’s a book that should not be missed.
The Washington Post gives Owl Babies a rating of four and a half stars out of five for its exceptional storytelling, evocative illustrations, and timeless appeal.
