Safina, Carl. Owls in Our Yard: The Story of Alfie. Norton, 06/2024. 48pp. Nonfiction. Trade $18.99. 978-1-3240-5319-4. GRADES Kindergarten–5. HIGH ADDITIONAL.
A half-dead owlet is adopted by a licensed wildlife rehabilitator, who is also an award-winning nature writer. Dozens of outstanding photographs and daily proximity give readers an astonishingly intimate glimpse into the growth, rewilding, courtship, and parenting of an eastern screech owl. Alfie’s massive aqua eyes and whisper-soft tawny plumage captivate, as Safina shares fascinating details, backed up by explanatory drawings. Readers will be on the edge of their seats as Alfie’s chicks fledge and face a brutal big world. Some philosophical musings on how the human slowdown during COVID allowed us to become more aware of the natural world seem out of place. Back matter includes an author’s note encouraging readers to know the number of their local wildlife rehabilitator. No other resources are appended. Safina is white. Review based on an ARC.
Melissa McAvoy—Retired