Boo and the Big Storm

Boo and the Big Storm by Wendy Lawrence, illustrated by Glen Vause (Wild Publishing)
HB RRP $24.95
ISBN 978 0 646 57779 1
Reviewed by Vicki Stanton

Boo and the Big Storm is an absolutely gorgeous book that young bird and nature lovers will adore.

Boo is a Southern boobook owlet with impossibly big eyes and curiosity to match. With her simple and beautiful text, author Wendy Lawrence is bound to draw young readers into feeling what Boo is feeling: when she falls from the tree in a fierce storm, finds herself in the middle of the road, is picked up by Farmer Goodman, and frets for her parents and brothers. Boo's relief when Farmer Goodman returns her to the safety and comfort of her nest and family provides a comforting and satisfying conclusion to the story.

The owlets are ideal subjects for a children's book with their fluffy down and huge eyes. Glen Vause's talent in illustrating landscapes and natural history is evident. He portrays the apprehension of Boo perfectly and it would take a hard heart to not fall in love with her.

At the end of the story, Lawrence gives a rundown on the Southern boobook owl. We learn their diet, habitat and threats to their survival. Two websites to refer to are also noted.

Boo and the Big Storm makes the perfect book to share with children. This book's a keeper and would make a great addition to any home, preschool or school library.