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Owling: Enter the World of the Mysterious Birds of the Night
From Hedwig, the Snowy Owl of Harry Potter fame, to Winnie-the-Pooh’s beloved friend Owl, this wide-eyed bird of the night has found its way into young hearts and imaginations everywhere. Owling invites young readers into the world of real-life owls, to learn about their fascinating behaviors and abilities. Wildlife photojournalist and nature educator Mark Wilson presents a one-of-a-kind look into the mysterious lives of these distinctive birds. Dramatic images of the 19 owl species of North America nesting, flying, hunting, and catching prey are accompanied by information about the birds’ silent flight, remarkable eyes and ears, haunting calls, and fascinating night life. Kids will learn how to spot owls; identify their calls, plumage, and pellets; and even carry on a hooting conversation with a nearby owl. This publication conforms to the EPUB Accessibility specification at WCAG 2.0 Level AA.
121 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 19, 2019
7 people are currently reading
99 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
March 4, 2019
Owling is a fascinating children’s non-fiction book that offers a comprehensive introduction into lives of these remarkable birds.
I was surprised to learn that owls’ huge mesmerizing eyes mean there is less space in brain, so the reputation for being all-knowing and wise may not be wholly deserved. I had no idea owl have twice as many vertebrae in their necks as we do and can turn their heads 200 degrees in any direction. The book offers a wealth of information on their binocular vision, ear tufts, sharp talons, and silent wings (there are specialized sound-dampening feathers). Young nature lovers also learn to distinguish between different owl species, observe these magnificent birds in nature and respect their habits.
Gorgeous illustrations and well-thought-through layout will catch and hold the young readers’ attention.
Owling would make a great addition to elementary and middle-grade school library.
Thank you to NetGalley and Storey Publishing for the ARC provided in exchange for an honest opinion.
I was surprised to learn that owls’ huge mesmerizing eyes mean there is less space in brain, so the reputation for being all-knowing and wise may not be wholly deserved. I had no idea owl have twice as many vertebrae in their necks as we do and can turn their heads 200 degrees in any direction. The book offers a wealth of information on their binocular vision, ear tufts, sharp talons, and silent wings (there are specialized sound-dampening feathers). Young nature lovers also learn to distinguish between different owl species, observe these magnificent birds in nature and respect their habits.
Gorgeous illustrations and well-thought-through layout will catch and hold the young readers’ attention.
Owling would make a great addition to elementary and middle-grade school library.
Thank you to NetGalley and Storey Publishing for the ARC provided in exchange for an honest opinion.
September 6, 2018
I've got this book on Netgalley (like many...) it doesn't affect my opinion in anyway, but I say it for this book because part of it seem unfinished, so it probably won't be the case for the final published version but it was for mine so... What I notice is that some picture had not sentence on them but the «Add caption» notice and there is one who had a caption but in what look like Spanish or Portuguese maybe. That being said, that book is really good. It cover the entire world of the Owls, from basic anatomy, to their environment, the way they hunt, etc. etc. I though it would be a very basic children book about owl, but sincerely I learn stuff and I think most adult will, even if it's a book for children around 10 years old I would say. Lots of contents, but all is well explains, well organize, a lot of pictures. If you want to learn about owl this is a good book to do it!
October 6, 2020
This is a fabulous book about all things owl. The author is a photojournalist, so the book is filled with magnificent photos, large and small, of the 19 species of owls that can be found in North America (from Canada to Mexico). The book begins with general anatomical descriptions of owls--skeleton, sight, hearing,, hunting, feathers, zygodactyl toes, , beaks, nesting and breeding. The middle section is devoted to describing each of the 19 species of owl, each with its own couple of pages or so, with more detailed info about its range, the sounds it makes, what it eats, and more. The final section gives some tips on finding owls in the wild (the do's and the many dont's), owl pellets, creating a backyard environment friendly to owls, and a few pages of people who work with owls in some capacity (rehabilitating or researching). The book ends with a glossary, a list of places to see owls in captivity, and an index. In addition to being a photojournalist, the author and his wife also care for 14 owls that cannot live in the wild anymore, and have an education program called Eyes On Owls.
November 18, 2018
What a fascinating book! This book covers everything you need to know about owls and more! Habitats, food, characteristics, types, where to find them and working with owls. I love that so many of the different types of owls were included in the book to compare with others. This would be an amazing book for an upper Elementary and above classroom as well as the library.
September 20, 2018
Even if you think you don't want to know about owls, you should read this book. Even if you thought you knew everything you needed to know about owls, you should read this book. And even if you don't like reading "children's science books" you should read this book.
Owling is a well written, middle-grade book with fascinating tidbits about Owls, from the way that their eyes work, to their ears, to how they build nests. Hint, they don't, they "borrow" other birds nests.
Great pictures, and easy to read one page factoids, make this book a delight. I would highly recommend it for schools and libraries. And adults will enjoy it as well.
Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review.
Owling is a well written, middle-grade book with fascinating tidbits about Owls, from the way that their eyes work, to their ears, to how they build nests. Hint, they don't, they "borrow" other birds nests.
Great pictures, and easy to read one page factoids, make this book a delight. I would highly recommend it for schools and libraries. And adults will enjoy it as well.
Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review.
June 8, 2020
An excellent resource for anyone who wants to know more about owls!
There are four (4) chapters: All About Owls, Introducing the Owls, How to Find Owls, and Working with Owls. The chapter called Introducing the Owls provides an opportunity to "meet" all of the owls of North America. For each owl, there is their common name, scientific name, ways to ID them, info. about their Range & Habitat, Voice, Nesting Behavior, other information, and What's on [Their] the Menu. There are also several color photographs of these owls in their natural habitats.
At the end of the book is a Glossary, Places to See Owls in Captivity (divided by state), and an Index
There are four (4) chapters: All About Owls, Introducing the Owls, How to Find Owls, and Working with Owls. The chapter called Introducing the Owls provides an opportunity to "meet" all of the owls of North America. For each owl, there is their common name, scientific name, ways to ID them, info. about their Range & Habitat, Voice, Nesting Behavior, other information, and What's on [Their] the Menu. There are also several color photographs of these owls in their natural habitats.
At the end of the book is a Glossary, Places to See Owls in Captivity (divided by state), and an Index
March 18, 2022
Pure delight! Mark Wilson is an owl expert and a superior wildlife photographer. His beautiful book will tell you everything you need to know to get started looking for owls, and appreciating everything about them. This book is written for middle schoolers but is really suited to all ages. I learned so much, including the many differences among owl species. The pictures are gorgeous and endearing, and the prose is clear, witty, and fun. Top this off with a glow in the dark cover! I had the privilege of attending a Mark and Marcia owl presentation. The two of them travel the world studying and photographing owls. I saw their rescue owls close up, and got an autographed copy of the book. Thanks to the Wilsons!
November 21, 2019
Owls and owls.
October 8, 2019
I was first given a copy of this book in digital formatting when it was still undergoing editing by the author and his publisher. As a result I found the book to be quite a mess and still a work-in-progress even though I was still intrigued by it. Fortunately for me the author chose to contact me and send me a copy of his completed book so that way I could see as well as read it in its final stage.
Just as I had suspected even in its rough format this book is a true gem! Mark Wilson's love and understanding of owls is conveyed to the reader as they are given a tour of these magnificent birds, what makes them different from other birds, what makes them all similar to each other even as different species and undoing the stereotypes that we have placed on these birds. As a result the book is a treasure trove of birding facts for birders of all ages.
The book also explores in depths the different species of North America while giving their various names, the coloring of their feathers, their calls, the menus they eat from and so much more. There is also a page or two that shows just how well these predatory birds are able to blend into their environment while providing the reader with great informative diagrams and colored photographs to enhance the reading experience.
And for future birders who want to be able to get to know these birds better there is a section that helps you to be able to have tips for finding the birds, knowing what legal birding practices are, how to build shelters for them and how to create a nice birding environment for them if you would like to have more chances of possibly meeting them in person. And there are even profiles of people and how they have made owls into professions as well as places in each state to visit to be able to get to know these birds better.
All in all it was a great book and one that will be a favored birding book for a long time to come.....
***I received a free copy to read of this book in exchange for an honest review.***
Just as I had suspected even in its rough format this book is a true gem! Mark Wilson's love and understanding of owls is conveyed to the reader as they are given a tour of these magnificent birds, what makes them different from other birds, what makes them all similar to each other even as different species and undoing the stereotypes that we have placed on these birds. As a result the book is a treasure trove of birding facts for birders of all ages.
The book also explores in depths the different species of North America while giving their various names, the coloring of their feathers, their calls, the menus they eat from and so much more. There is also a page or two that shows just how well these predatory birds are able to blend into their environment while providing the reader with great informative diagrams and colored photographs to enhance the reading experience.
And for future birders who want to be able to get to know these birds better there is a section that helps you to be able to have tips for finding the birds, knowing what legal birding practices are, how to build shelters for them and how to create a nice birding environment for them if you would like to have more chances of possibly meeting them in person. And there are even profiles of people and how they have made owls into professions as well as places in each state to visit to be able to get to know these birds better.
All in all it was a great book and one that will be a favored birding book for a long time to come.....
***I received a free copy to read of this book in exchange for an honest review.***
September 24, 2018
A reference book rather than narrative nonfiction that includes an amazing variety of owls to learn about. Tons of photos make this a vibrant read!
June 12, 2023
Do you want to know a lot of very interesting facts about owls?? Even if you don't think you do, this book will delight you with its content, photos, activities, and displays.
I had no idea owls could be so appealing!
I had no idea owls could be so appealing!
January 19, 2020
Great nonfiction book, beautiful photos and illustrations, excellent information, I learned a lot and read every page!
January 5, 2019
Fabulous photographs accompanied by every non-fiction text fiction any ELA teacher oils list make this a terrific non-fiction book for libraries of all types whether public, classroom, school, or personal. Author Mark Wilson gives readers grades 4-8 detailed information on owl anatomy, predatory behavior, breeding, habitat, species, and even includes ways to possible view these elusive raptors and possible careers working with them. While I am likely to purchase this one for my library collection, there are a few critical comments: First, the text switches between first and third person throughout which is more than a little off-putting for this former English-Language Arts teacher. And it was odd to have nearly every page in the book feature beautiful photographs except for the two pages that illustrate how to design a yard that is attractive to owls. The almost cartoonish looking section did not seem to fit the book’s layout at all. Lastly, the length of this book exceeds most non-fiction books purchased for middle grade libraries, but is broken up into clear sections and photographs, diagrams and side bars keep the reader’s eye and mind moving. Thanks for the dARC, NetGalley.
January 10, 2019
This book goes above and beyond the basic facts of owls, and without grouping wildly different species all together. They are often crepuscular, NOT nocturnal, as many others would have you believe. There are so many different sections, maps, diagrams, etc. that cover so much, without being overwhelming, and with gorgeous photos! As an owl enthusiast, I am thrilled to see a detailed, accurate book perfect for young owlers like I once was!
December 6, 2019
I picked up Mark Wilson’s Owling: Enter the World of the Mysterious Birds of the Night and I was lost in the absolute stunning photographs, the variety of text features and the layout of this book.
It is clear that owls are a passion for the author (and his wife) and that passion is now a gift to readers. The book has common text features one would expect (table of contents, glossary and an index, along with photographs and various images) however the way this book is laid out and the choice of the type of text feature will be a dream for teachers and anyone with even the slightest interest in owls.
The book is divided into 4 sections a general knowledge about owls, a look at the owls found in North America, how one can find owls and finally a section of how we can work and help owls. This book provides such phenomenal photographs side by side detailed yet simple diagrams. The section about the different owls follow a consistent format so that readers know what to expect. I love the On The Menu to showcase the diet of a particular animal with some illustrations along with the text.
There are so many text features that younger readers will find this just as fascinating as older elementary aged readers. There is a nice balance so older readers can get the details without being overwhelmed. The last section of the book finished off with ways that we work and are learning from owls along with a list of places to see owls in North America. A MUST HAVE GORGEOUS BOOK for libraries and for anyone interested in owls and even photography.
It is clear that owls are a passion for the author (and his wife) and that passion is now a gift to readers. The book has common text features one would expect (table of contents, glossary and an index, along with photographs and various images) however the way this book is laid out and the choice of the type of text feature will be a dream for teachers and anyone with even the slightest interest in owls.
The book is divided into 4 sections a general knowledge about owls, a look at the owls found in North America, how one can find owls and finally a section of how we can work and help owls. This book provides such phenomenal photographs side by side detailed yet simple diagrams. The section about the different owls follow a consistent format so that readers know what to expect. I love the On The Menu to showcase the diet of a particular animal with some illustrations along with the text.
There are so many text features that younger readers will find this just as fascinating as older elementary aged readers. There is a nice balance so older readers can get the details without being overwhelmed. The last section of the book finished off with ways that we work and are learning from owls along with a list of places to see owls in North America. A MUST HAVE GORGEOUS BOOK for libraries and for anyone interested in owls and even photography.
November 4, 2018
4.5 Stars, rounded up. Owling was a fascinating and complete look at owls. This book was written in a clear but detailed manner illustrated with beautiful photographs. The faces of the owls staring out at the reader was mesmerizing at times. The book began with general information about owls, continued on with specific owls found in North America, then how to find owls which included a section on owl pellets and homes. One thing I remember about owl pellets was getting to dissect one as a student in elementary school and I though it was so interesting. Finally the author shows us about working with owls to protect them and learn more about them. I learned quite a bit about owls reading this book, which really surprised me. This would be a great book for any public or school library, where children love to read about and learn about animals in our world. Owls seem to be one of those animals that attract a lot of questions and interest, so, read this book to satisfy your curiosity. The publisher, Storey Publishing, generously provided me with a copy of this book to read. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
March 6, 2019
Includes a broad introduction to owls and the characteristics they share, 2-4 page profiles of each species of owl found in North America outlining that species’ defining characteristics, followed by a guide for would-be owl watchers, and finishing with 1-2 page profiles of some people who hold jobs that let them work regularly with owls.
This is not the type of book I’d hand to a kid expecting them to read straight through (unless they are a die-hard owl lover). I’d hand it to them expecting them to use it as a resource to identify an owl, gather information on owls in general or a certain American species specifically, or to explore various occupations that allow people to work with owls. It is a fantastic resource for each of those things providing extensive information on each one. And there are fantastic photos of all kinds of owls throughout to make owl lovers super happy. Recommended for schools and classrooms to have on hand for research, and of course, if you know an owl lover, they probably need this book.
I received an ARC of this title from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is not the type of book I’d hand to a kid expecting them to read straight through (unless they are a die-hard owl lover). I’d hand it to them expecting them to use it as a resource to identify an owl, gather information on owls in general or a certain American species specifically, or to explore various occupations that allow people to work with owls. It is a fantastic resource for each of those things providing extensive information on each one. And there are fantastic photos of all kinds of owls throughout to make owl lovers super happy. Recommended for schools and classrooms to have on hand for research, and of course, if you know an owl lover, they probably need this book.
I received an ARC of this title from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 12, 2019
Outstanding!!!! If I could give this more stars I would pile them up as this is one of the best nonfiction books of this year. Wildlife photographer Mark Wilson has been studying and caring for owls for more than 25 years and he packs this fascinating book with a wealth of information, often gently disabusing commonly held beliefs about owls.
Well arranged and wonderfully written for a young audience, Wilson presents general information on owls, then goes into specifics on the many species of owls and lastly includes sections on how to find and respect owls in nature and how to work with owls. The last discusses banding, research and rehabilitation efforts.
Stunning visually, the book is oversized which makes a terrific stage for Wilson's absolutely gorgeous photographs which almost steal the show. This book should be in EVERY library as it will be hugely popular with nature loving and science oriented kids. Just set this one on display and watch kids grab it immediately.
My library didn't have have this in the entire consortium so do what I do and request they buy it immediately and buy one for your school library right away.
Well arranged and wonderfully written for a young audience, Wilson presents general information on owls, then goes into specifics on the many species of owls and lastly includes sections on how to find and respect owls in nature and how to work with owls. The last discusses banding, research and rehabilitation efforts.
Stunning visually, the book is oversized which makes a terrific stage for Wilson's absolutely gorgeous photographs which almost steal the show. This book should be in EVERY library as it will be hugely popular with nature loving and science oriented kids. Just set this one on display and watch kids grab it immediately.
My library didn't have have this in the entire consortium so do what I do and request they buy it immediately and buy one for your school library right away.
March 10, 2019
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I think this book is wonderful for young children with any interest in owls or birds. The photos were wonderful. The reasearch and explanations seem very easily digestible for young researchers, especially for any sort of project or report they may be doing. It is still readable for anyone looking for less of a fact driven book, but still contains wonderful bits of information. When I grabbed the book, I was thinking of my bird loving kindergartner, but this is not a book I would read to that age group. I would consider this more middle grade interest level. A wonderful non-fiction option for the independent and curious reader.
I think this book is wonderful for young children with any interest in owls or birds. The photos were wonderful. The reasearch and explanations seem very easily digestible for young researchers, especially for any sort of project or report they may be doing. It is still readable for anyone looking for less of a fact driven book, but still contains wonderful bits of information. When I grabbed the book, I was thinking of my bird loving kindergartner, but this is not a book I would read to that age group. I would consider this more middle grade interest level. A wonderful non-fiction option for the independent and curious reader.
March 30, 2019
Owling is a fascinating look at the diverse species of owls found in the United States and Canada, perfect for young birders and budding scientists. The educational, interactive text invites kids to observe and appreciate their local wildlife, and the gorgeous photos will be sure to inspire a newfound love of nature in all readers. Mark Wilson’s reverence for these incredible birds shines through in delightful anecdotes gleaned from his extensive scholarship. I’m eager to go on an “owl prowl” myself after reading this book, and Wilson offers practical, engaging advice on the best ways to see these birds in the wild while still being an ethical guest in their habitat.
My thanks to Storey Publishing and NetGalley for providing a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
4.5 / 5 stars
My thanks to Storey Publishing and NetGalley for providing a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
4.5 / 5 stars
July 30, 2019
This is your one-stop book for thorough and fascinating coverage of owls. Crisp, detailed photographs bring to life every aspect of owl anatomy, nesting, habitat, and hunting. Owl pellets, which always fascinate kids, are covered in great detail. The book finishes with conservation and rehabilitation efforts and directions for making your own owl box. The glow-in-the-dark cover is icing on the cake.
I waited until I could get a hard copy from our library network before buying. Our local children's librarian agrees that this is an incredible book and ordered one today, too! I recommend this for teachers to add to their classroom libraries.
Owling: enter the mysterious birds of the night by Mark Wilson is worth every penny.
Thanks to NetGalley and Storey Publishing for the eARC.
I waited until I could get a hard copy from our library network before buying. Our local children's librarian agrees that this is an incredible book and ordered one today, too! I recommend this for teachers to add to their classroom libraries.
Owling: enter the mysterious birds of the night by Mark Wilson is worth every penny.
Thanks to NetGalley and Storey Publishing for the eARC.
April 18, 2019
One of the best owl books I have ever seen, this picture book sized guide has everything you ever needed to know about owls. After an introduction to owl anatomy, habitat and behavior, we are introduced to 19 different owls of North America. We learn about each owl’s special look, traits and lifestyle, including weight height and wingspan. Readers learn how to find owls, owl etiquette and owl rehabilitation. Information is easy to read and the photographs are stunning. This is a must have for owl, and bird lovers aged eight to adult.
July 9, 2019
I would recommend this non-fiction book about Owls and the facts and beautiful photos of these birds is fascinating. You compare and contrast various owls and their coloring and heads and beaks, etc. It goes through their body structure and eyes and color. And it talks about each kind of owl. The author describes the animals the owl preys upon and their molting, finding a nest and a mate and where they choose to live. So much information and helpful if a child is doing a report on a specific owl. Great illustrations for kids to see the differences in the different owls.
June 20, 2020
I have always loved owls. I started collecting them when I was young and have quite the collection, so when I saw this book, I had to grab it! (The cover glows, too!)
There are fantastic photos and diagrams. The explanations are high quality. There are some fun pages where you can look for hidden birds or guess the species of baby. It has such great detail in the owls of North America - what their calls are like, where they live, food they eat, etc.
I highly recommend this book to any owl-lover, bird-watcher, or kid who wants something fun and new to learn about!
There are fantastic photos and diagrams. The explanations are high quality. There are some fun pages where you can look for hidden birds or guess the species of baby. It has such great detail in the owls of North America - what their calls are like, where they live, food they eat, etc.
I highly recommend this book to any owl-lover, bird-watcher, or kid who wants something fun and new to learn about!
April 15, 2019
This is a really terrific book, a perfect book for a child (or even a grown up!) who wants to learn more about these truly amazing creatures. Excellent photos and clear information, in a very accessible format. If you live in New England and have the chance to attend one of Mark and Marcia Wilson's owl presentations, don't pass it up--they are informative and fun, and it's awe-inspiring to see these birds up close. Recommended for ages 8-12.
January 3, 2020
This informational book for middle-upper grade readers is full of fascinating facts and photographs of owls. Abounding in helpful text features and written in an approachable conversational style, the book is a thorough resource on North American owls. Its large size fosters readable pages and beautiful illustrations, but may be hard to accommodate on library shelves. Highly recommended.
February 12, 2021
This book is excellent. The pictures are breathtaking. The author does a great job in using the pictures to help us understand the differences between the owls. Both kids and adults will learn tons from this book. The layout of the book was also unique and helpful. The end of the book that discussed owl jobs was our favorite. I hope every library and school has a copy of this book.
August 18, 2021
Very informative with awesome photos that will help you identify the different types of owls. It adds the regions where each can be found, what they eat, where they live, their mating habits, and what other owls they can be confused with. At the end of the book, it even gives you pointers on how to find owls as well as describes the jobs of a few people who study and help owls.
November 8, 2022
This award-winning picture book includes illustrations of the skeleton of an owl, the inside parts of an owl's eyes, the varying diet of the 19 owl species in North America, and the dissection of owl pellets. It also explains scientific names, contains a beak comparison between nine bird species, and encourages building an owl house.
December 31, 2022
Nonfiction narrative containing everything you could ever want to know about owls and more. The writing style often seems written for a younger audience, though there is way too much information to keep the attention span for that audience.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews