Owl Babies

Martin Waddell's 'Owl Babies' is a tender and reassuring story about three young owls who wake one night to find their mother gone. The narrative beautifully captures their growing anxiety and fear as they wait, wondering about her whereabouts and the 'scary things' around them. The simple, repetitive text and stunning illustrations effectively convey the universal experience of separation anxiety in young children. The joyous reunion provides a comforting resolution, affirming the strong bond between parent and child. It's an excellent book for discussing feelings of worry and reassurance.

The baby owls came out of their house, and they sat on the tree and waited. A big branch for Sarah, a small branch for Percy, and an old piece of ivy for Bill. When three baby owls awake one night to find their mother gone, they can't help but wonder where she is. Stunning illustrations from unique and striking perspectives capture the owls as they worry about their mother: What is she doing? When will she be back? What scary things move all around them? Not surprisingly, a joyous flapping and dancing and bouncing greets her return, lending a celebratory tone to the ending of this comforting tale. Never has the plight of young ones who miss their mother been so simply told or so beautifully rendered.