To See an Owl by Matthew Cordell
Published by Random House Studio on January 7, 2025
ISBN: 0593649893
Pages: 38
Genres: Animals, Emotions & Feelings, Nature, Realistic Fiction
Format: Picture Book Fiction
Source: MSL Book Review
Goodreads

Janie’s long hoped of seeing an owl. Accompanied by her devoted mother, Janie searches the woods and surrounding area. Not a single owl has presented itself after months of searching. Janie gets a tip from her teacher and experienced birder Mr. Koji. When Janie goes to the location he suggested, she spots two horned owls.

Beautiful pen-and-ink illustrations treated with watercolors convey the young birder’s drawings, notes, and map.  There are also subtler moments, such as  Mama’s unease while exploring or the time when the two miss a hidden owl in the illustration. Janie (aka Cordell) includes a page in her journal of the sounds different owls make. This book is informative and a pleasurable exploration of the magic of nature. Nicely paired with Jane Yolen’s Owl Moon (1987). For ages 6-9.

Nominated for Cream of the Crop

Barb Rehmeyer, Liberty Library