Owly Volume 1: The Way Home & The Bittersweet Summer by Andy Runton
Reviewed by: Johnny McClung
About the Author:
Andy Runton created the breakout all-ages series of graphic novels, Owly, in 2001. The Owly series has earned praise from fans and critics alike, winning multiple awards including the Howard E. Day Memorial Prize, the Harvey Award, two Ignatz Awards, and the 2006 Eisner Award for "Best Publication for a Younger Audience." I rely on a mixture of symbols, icons, and expressions to tell my silent stories, and my work showcases my love of wildlife and the outdoors. I currently reside in the greater-Atlanta area where I work full-time on my Owly comics, books, and graphic novels.
About the Owly Comics:
Owly is a kind-hearted little owl who knows what it means to be human. Although the Owlystories are silent, the characters use on a mixture of symbols and expressions to express themselves. The Owly series is full of animated and heartwarming stories that are perfect for the entire family and have become a favorite of fans and critics alike.
My Take on the Book:
As I was looking for a comic to review I came across an interesting comic I wish I would have found a year ago. My daughter, now four, loves books, but if allowed would have us reading her stories continuously. And our suggestion of "reading the pictures" did not go over well. I have now found a comic where she can do just that.
The author uses symbols and pictures to tell the story of a kind hearted owl, trying to help out those around him. The first story, The Way Home, tells of Owls adventure in helping a lost worm find his way home. Through the adventure they become friends and even after finding his home, they end up sticking together. The second story, The Bittersweet Summer, tells how Owly and his new friend Wormy befriend a couple of hummingbirds for the summer.
While the simplicity of this book allows even the youngest to understand, the story and message of this book will appeal to any reader. I greatly enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more from this author. Currently there are five volumes of Owly and his adventures.
I have never heard of this series and I think my seven-year-old, who is an independent and fairly avid reader, would love them too.
@Trina - Very cool! Hope your son enjoys it. Looks very cute!