There's an Owl in the Shower

Gr 3-5 Set in a small logging town in northern California, George's book focuses on the conflict between loggers and environmentalists over the northern spotted owl. Young Borden Watson plunges into the woods, planning to kill one of the creatures, believing they are directly responsible for his father losing his job as a logger. He returns, however, with an owlet that has fallen from its nest. Caring for it is no easy task; other family members are drawn into the situation, especially the out-of-work father, who has lots of free time. (Because young spotted owls have no spots, the family thinks their pet is a barred owl.) Though she is clearly on the side of the endangered birds, George's writing skill and knowledge of animal behavior turn what could have been nothing but message into an absorbing story that shows both sides of the controversy, leaving readers with a clear understanding of the issues involved. Perhaps the conflict is too neatly resolved, but the story ends on a somber note. The owlet is returned to its nest, but when the male owl calls for his mate, there is no answer. Merrill's drawings perfectly capture the engaging bird and the family's affection for it.--Ruth S. Vose, San Francisco Public Library

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