OWLET'S FIRST FLIGHT

Nighttime can be scary, especially for a young owl on his first flight. But as many children learn, most fears are often not what they seem.

Simple rhyming text describes owlet’s initial reluctance to fly, his mama’s firm encouragement and the resulting nocturnal adventure. “A dip, a drop, but now he’s steady. / Fly, little Owlet, tonight you are ready!” A wordless double-page spread follows, showing an owl-eye view of the dark landscape he is about to explore. Thankfully, frightening shadows are only tree branches, and a popping sound turns out to be acorns falling onto a barn roof. Modarressi’s (Taking Care of Mama, 2010) talent with watercolors elevates this sweet bedtime tale above the many titles of this ilk. Owlet’s eyes convey his every emotion—worry, fear, surprise, relief and joy. Skillful layering of color conveys the bird’s swooping movements, while sharply drawn details of the creatures contrast nicely with the softer natural backgrounds, including the sky that ranges from inky blue to purplish pink.

Preschoolers are sure to enjoy this cozy story and cheer for Owlet when he is finally “Safe with his family, snug in his nest”—which, sweetly, is heart-shaped.