The Way Home (Owly #1)

In this first volume of the new graphic novel series based on the popular Owly picture books and comics, a sweetly patient and persistent owl finds belonging and a faithful circle of friends through generous, helpful acts. In the first of the two stories, “Finding Home,” kindhearted Owly rescues a drowning worm and sleeplessly tends to the shivering visitor. In the morning, upon learning that Wormy has been separated from his family, the two create a map and form a plan to reunite Wormy with his parents. In the second, “Flying Home,” Owly and Wormy, now roommates with matching gardening hats and a shared interest in helping others, offer aid to two hungry hummingbirds and quickly befriend them. Runton’s illustrations glow with vivid and lustrous color, the characters all delightfully expressive. There are hints of sadness and danger, such as the devastating storm that originally separated Wormy from his family, as well as a scene in which one of the hummingbirds is trapped in a cage. The majority of Owly’s adventures, though, are buoyed by kindness and goodwill. Ages 7–10. [em](Feb.) [/em]