April 15, 2023
Even a wise owl has plenty to learn. Merlin the owl searches for potential friends in the woods. Attempting to join several flocks of birds, i.e., butting into their conversations without invitation, the owl brags brazenly ("I tell the best stories!"). The others don't give a hoot and fly away. Alone, Merlin proclaims, "I DON'T NEED FRIENDS!" and tries to make a case for why friends are a drawback: They're noisy, Merlin dislikes sharing, and flying alone affords "true freedom." Of course, friends do provide comfort in a rainstorm...and rain brings out "juicy worms." Said worms set the stage for a friendship story in which Merlin discovers that niceties such as helping, offering compliments, taking an interest in others, and even telling a joke can help forge bonds with others. This cute, gently humorous tale's ending feels rushed and doesn't add anything new to the crowded field of making-friends stories. However, it will arouse empathy and is worth sharing with youngsters spreading their own wings and feeling uncertain about developing social relationships. The guide to making friends at the end of the book will reassure children as well. The illustrations, rendered in ink, colored pencil, and digital collage, are bright, lively, and expressive; Merlin is a feisty character. (This book was reviewed digitally.) Whoo needs friends? Tips from this owl protagonist may help children learn how to make them. (Picture book. 4-7)
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