Owl Babies

Title: Owl Babies
Author: Martin Waddell
Illustrator: Patrick Benson
Publication Year: 1992
Age Group: Babies/Toddlers, Preschool
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Recommended By:

1. 1001 Children’s Books You Must Read Before You Grow Up
2. The Read-Aloud Handbook
3. Valerie and Walter’s Best Books for Children

Comments: The first time I read this book, I didn’t really understand why it would be so highly recommended, but now I get it. Both my preschooler and toddler love this book. In my 4 year old’s exact words after the first time he heard this story, “Mama, I loved that book. It’s so cute.” Really, what it is is the ultimate drama for toddlers. The mama owl disappears and the baby owls spend more than half the book wondering where she went and worrying about whether or not she’ll come back. Then she does. It’s like an edge-of-your-seat, nail-biting suspense thriller with the ultimate happy ending for a 2 year old. My toddler laughs with glee when the mother returns, every time, even though we’ve read this book at least a dozen times so far. I also think this book serves the beneficial purpose of reminding toddlers and preschoolers, especially those with separation anxiety, that mom will always come back.

Included on Lists:

1. Best Books for Babies & Toddlers
2. Best Books for Preschoolers