OWL BABIES

Lorelei King starts with an upbeat tone to portray three fluffy, enthusiastic baby owls who live in a cozy nest. Accompanying music complements the bubbly, energetic spirit of the opening. Then the owl babies wake to find their mother missing. King manages to give each baby an individual voice as they try to comfort each other but finally begin screeching with fear. The soundscape of soft owl hoots and quiet night noises contrasts with their crescendo. Just in time for the panicky owl babes and for young listeners who need relief, mother owl arrives, swooping in as King's comforting narration makes much of the happy reunion. There's also a quieter rendition, with a bell tone signaling page-turns, for beginning readers who need a bit of support. S.W. © AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine [Published: DECEMBER 2008]