Following Dreams: TO SEE AN OWL

The picture books i feature here are among those I consider the best of the best. THere's no denying that my choices are highly subjective, despite reflecting years of objective comparison among other offerings for readers. A big factor in my subjective choices is subject matter, whether fiction or nonfiction, informational or inspiring. Or any combination of the above. As regular readers here might have noted, and I openly admit, books about birds get a head start on my heart. Though I seek to feature books with wide appeal, in recent weeks I wrote about THE CRANE AND THE KEEPER (HERE), and THE BLUE JAYS THAT GREW A FOREST (HERE). Both are nonfiction with accounts that intrigue and entertain. 

RANDOM HOUSE STUDIO, 2023

It's about time I give a round of applause to a picture book that flies in the face of categorization. There's no doubt it is informative, and it is as uplifting as a whoosh of bird flight. TO SEE AN OWL is written and illustrated by award-winning creator Matthew Cordell. That cover alone suggests the ironic parallels within this story, the push and pull of an avid and curious admirer of owls (she's the one on the right) and an elusive, evasive great horned owl. Their eyes tell the story, in a sense, suggesting that the expertise of each (the sought and the seeker) rely on careful and intentional observation in their pursuit of what they most want.

This lovely offering of facts about owls couches the scientific information within the story of a girl with a lifelong dream. It's clear that her mother is in large part responsible for this girl's obsession since infancy, through shared books and encouragement of her interest and art. It's no wonder that even when less-than-enthused, her mother  tirelessly trudges along on many  sojourns to spot an owl. I've mentioned Jane Yolen's powerful OWL MOON in prior posts about books featuring this not-rare obsession, as in this post. Many of those who attempt to produce owl-pursuit picture books share a visual aesthetic with OWL MOON, and that's to be expected. After all, owls are sought in the the dark, in wooded areas, and more than occasionally in snow-covered times. That's when the ringing WHOOO resonates most clearly, floating above a moon-luminous, blue-lit snowy field or path. The art is often watery-washed and magical in tone, simply because such an eventual meeting is, indeed, quite magical and unforgettable.

Cordell's style and technique emphasizes line art, as the cover reveals. Color serves the story but often leans toward the subdued natural tones seen here. That technique underscores the storytelling in this restrained but heartfelt account of a devoted and determined young girl whose teacher turns out to also be a birder. One who affirms that spotting an owl is magical.

That connection is a bond that increases the girl's knowledge, skills, and intentionality in her pursuits. When the time comes to share her report, she has not yet seen an owl, despite her increased expertise. But her field map and accurate recordings of other sightings leads to a comment from her teacher that sparks hope. And the ultimate moment of meeting (really? that's a spoiler? No, it had to happen.) is powerful and direct, uplifting and gratifying, but not in the usual 'dreamy" way.

This is what I loved most about this book.This realistic, earnest character who recognizes magic without special effects. I continue to refer to "the girl", even though she is central to the story. The first person narration allows readers to find themselves seeing what she sees, feeling what she feels, dreaming along with her of a lifelong goal. One that doesn't win a prize or prove a point, but allows her to satisfy her dream. From the pre-title page art and text to the final page turn, the subtle art, the warmth of adult support and faith, the drive to learn and discover combine to produce a fully satisfying conclusion. 

If you read this one and come away without at least an urge to go owl-spotting, leave a comment and explain, please. Perhaps, instead, you followed the dream-pursuit journey to the place in your heart that will take you on an entirely different journey, but with no less dedication to making your dream come true. That's magical. The magic of picture books for any age.