20 Feb Review: Saving the Spotted Owl: Zalea’s Story
Saving the Spotted Owl: Zalea’s Story
by Nicola Jones; illustrated by Alexandra Finkeldey
Kids can Press Ltd., 2023
ISBN: 9781525305559 (hardcover)
ISBN: 9781525310713 (eBook)
$21.00 CAD
32 pages
Ages: 8 to 13 years old
Review by Kyra Paquet
Saving the Spotted Owl: Zalea’s Story is a nonfiction picture book about a baby spotted owl, Zalea, who falls from her nest and is rehabilitated by a team of wildlife biologists. The book takes you on a journey through Zalea’s life into motherhood, while teaching readers about the risks animals face in British Columbia, due to mass deforestation. The unique and color-rich illustrations by Alexandra Finkeldey give the story momentum. The emotion depicted in the eyes of the animals and people draws readers in, pulling at their heartstrings, while guiding the journey of the story beautifully. Jones’ warm style really jumps off the page. Some of the language is too advanced for young readers, but there is a glossary with helpful terms at the end of the book. It should be noted that certain pages are heavy with text. In some instances, passages could be removed or better represented by illustrations to help reader accessibility. Saving the Spotted Owl: Zalea’s Story is an inspirational and educational story about rehabilitation, the effects of deforestation, and what it means to be an endangered animal.