The Christmas Owl; Ellen Kalish & Gideon Sterer, illustrated by Ramona Kaulitzki

A little owl discovers the true meaning of Christmas in a wintry adventure inspired by real events.

In a little town stood a house, and at the front of the house was a little garden, and in that garden stood a very big tree that was home to a very little owl. From high up in the branches, Little Owl can see the wonders of the world; the streams for splashing in, the forests to fly in, and lots of friends to play with.

When Christmas comes to town and Little Owl’s tree is cut down, she’s certain that Christmas cannot be a good thing. But then she meets wildlife rescue worker Ellen, whose house is decorated for Christmas and mysteriously seems to be a retreat for feathered friends to hang out at. Surrounded by kindness, love and goodwill, Little Owl wonders if she has got Christmas wrong…

Swooping into young lives is an utterly gorgeous picture book that will charm and warm hearts. Co-penned by Ellen, the founder of Ravensbeard Wildlife Center where the aptly named Rockefeller was rehabilitated, The Christmas Owl is a beautifully written and sweetly illustrated story about a most surprising find in one of the world’s most famous Christmas trees.

Rockefeller’s story, which she narrates herself, is thought-proving and bittersweet. There is plenty of compassion and kindness, love and care within the pages but wider questions around the destruction of habitats and animal protection will arise.

​Thankfully, Rockefeller does have a happy ending because in Ellen she finds a Christmas miracle. Ellen’s love for animals is unquestionable and her retelling of ‘The Real Story of Rockefeller’ that is included at the end, along with a spectacular photo, is the magic we all long for at this time of year.

Instantly appealing with a sparkly front cover and those big eyes, Little Owl will bring smiles to all in one of the most endearing reads to snuggle up with over the holiday season.

Recommended for 4+.