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Berkeley’s Barn Owl Dance

August 29, 2008 by Lauren

It’s that time of year. It’s the time when we realize that our precious children are another year older. It’s time for a new school year, new teachers, and new friends. While some kids are thrilled about the exciting changes that the new school year brings, others need a gentle nudge to help them spread their wings.

Berkeley the barn owl is no different. She is a lively owl, enjoying the comfort of her own barn with her family. The time comes, however, for the Leave the Nest Fall Fest. As much as Berkeley enjoys dancing at the Fall Fest, she is not ready to leave her nest! With encouragement from her parents and help from her friends, Berkeley learns that there are exciting new places and friends waiting for her outside the comfort of the only barn she has ever known.

Berkeley’s Barn Owl Dance by Tera Johnson is a charming story for any child (it is recommended for ages 3-7), but it is especially relevant to those who hesitate when faced with new adventures. My daughter, who is almost four, has asked me to read this story many, many times. Because she is always reluctant to leave my side for any amount of time, I am planning to remind her of Berkeley’s adventure when she heads to Mother’s Day Out next week!

When I first saw this book, I was not as attracted to it as I am most children’s books. I tend to prefer bright, vivid colors, and the illustrations in Berkeley’s Barn Owl Dance are done with much more subdued browns, greens and blues. After reading the story, however, I couldn’t help but think that the depictions of Berkeley and the other owls were adorably drawn, and I think the simple illustrations and peaceful tones contribute to the calming message of the story.

If you have a little one who is afraid of new adventures, be sure to pick up a copy of Berkeley’s Barn Owl Dance today. I am sure your child will enjoy it as much as mine.

Lauren is a wife, a mother of two, and an avid reader. She blogs at Baseballs and Bows.

Filed Under: Easy Readers, Lauren, Picture Books

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Comments

  1. Jennifer (5 Minutes for Books) says

    August 29, 2008 at 6:44 am

    What a great review!

    The Scaredy Squirrel books are the same way, as far as dealing with fears, but I think that they are geared a bit older (although Kyle gets a huge kick out of the humor). The drawings are the same style as well, which is interesting.

  2. Katrina (Callapidder Days) says

    August 29, 2008 at 8:17 am

    That sounds really good. My oldest was hesitant and probably would have really enjoyed this book when he was younger. We’ll see how the youngest turns out — at 2, he’s fearless.

    I know what you mean about the colors and style. The more muted look is popping up more and more but it takes some getting used to.

  3. Carrie (Reading to Know) says

    August 29, 2008 at 10:09 am

    That is a very good point about the illustrations producing a calming mood. It’s very true!

  4. morninglight mama says

    August 29, 2008 at 2:07 pm

    Thanks for sharing this book– I defintely want to check for it at the library. I love reading new books with the little ones!

  5. tania Howells says

    August 29, 2008 at 7:40 pm

    thank-you for a wonderful review- i am so proud to hear you liked our book- I had lots of fun working on it!
    🙂

  6. Erin says

    August 30, 2008 at 4:01 pm

    What an adorable cover! Makes me wish my son was little again.

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