cover image Owl Howls Again!

Owl Howls Again!

Paul Friester, illus. by Philippe Goossens. NorthSouth (IPS, dist.), $15.95 (32p) ISBN 978-0-7358-4129-1

After getting lost in Owl Howl, Friester’s Little Owl is having trouble at home. Before leaving to buy groceries, her mother cautions, “Be good and don’t let anyone in.” Problem is, when Mommy Owl returns, Little Owl isn’t sure it’s really her and is afraid to unlock the door. “Maybe you’re the big bad wolf and want to gobble me up,” cries Little Owl, who has just finished reading “The Three Little Pigs.” Neighbors gather, and matters escalate until Little Owl’s mother shares information that only she would know, assuring her daughter of her identity. Though the ending is slightly abrupt, Goossens’s warm, gauzy paintings create a sense of security while acknowledging the comedy of the situation. Ages 4–8. (Jan.)