Otto, an owl, gets made fun of by other owls because he recites poetry instead of hunting mice. He runs away from his home and begins reciting and creating poems by himself. Mice hear Otto recite his poem and tells him that they love his poems and want to hear more. The other owls listen and enjoy it as well. ( )

This is a re-read. When I previously read this book six years ago, I didn't own it. I recently received it as a gift from a member in our 75 challenge group. This prompted me to read it once again.

And, I am so glad I read it twice. It is a lovely book, both with illustrations and the poetry mentioned.

Highly recommended!
Otto is an owl who doesn't quite fit in with his owl mates. While they are using the moon for the light it shines on prey, Otto is gazing at the moon and is struck poetically by the beauty. A dreamer who looks to the stars, Otto is a romantic.

He simply cannot help loving the sound of words that when the right one is used elicits wonderful feelings. Ostracized and alone, he wanders through the forest searching for someone to listen.

Instead of grabbing the mice with his claws, he reads to them and holds them with poetic words.

Each night more and more mice come to listen. His owl heart is filled with joy when increasingly other animals are drawn to the poetry of Keats, Dickinson, and Elliot.

This is a wonderful story with lovely illustrations. ( )

Cute introduction to poetry for your little ones. I enjoyed the drawings. There is a little taste of several poets as well as poems written for the book. ( )

An owl with a passion for verse seeks a receptive audience who will share his enthusiasm. ( )