Friday, 9 May 2025

I am NOT an OWL!

I am NOT an OWL! by Rhonda Ooi, illustrated by Mel Corrigan (Woodslane Press) HB RRP $24.99 ISBN: 9781922800916

Reviewed by Dannielle Viera

Alexander knows a lot about nocturnal animals, and the most important thing is that they sleep during the day when he is awake. So when his mum wants him to go to bed while the sun is still shining, Alexander tells her it’s a ‘silly idea’ because he is ‘NOT an owl’. He busies himself similarly to his favourite nocturnal animals: swooping like an owl to locate his mum’s lost necklace, hanging upside down like a flying fox, and crashing through obstacles like a wombat. Soon, the tired boy snuggles up next to his mum and falls asleep.

Rhonda Ooi’s engaging book blends narrative fiction and factual notes to take readers aged four to eight on a fascinating journey into the night-time world. Along the way, youngsters will discover the movement, bed and food of Australia’s most famous nocturnal creatures, from the owl and the possum to the Tasmanian devil. At the end of the book, there is a page brimming with information for kids keen to learn more.

Mel Corrigan’s bright illustrations are delightfully dynamic. Colourful curves and flowing lines mimic the natural motion of the birds and animals discussed in the text, drawing eager young eyes across the spreads. Realistic portrayals of the fauna will satisfy readers’ curiosity about the creatures' appearance.

Learning about nocturnal animals has never been more fun! I am NOT an OWL! is a clever and captivating introduction to the subject for nature-loving children, and it’s sure to become a firm favourite in no time.

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