Olwen Finds Her Wings - by Nora Surojegin (Hardcover)

About the Book

First published by Fukuinkan Shoten Publishers Inc., Tokyo, Japan in 2009 under the title The Little Owl.

Book Synopsis

An adorable baby owl discovers what makes her special in this beautifully expressive picture book from the creators of Otto and the Secret Light of Christmas

Olwen the baby owl isn't happy. Sitting on her branch is boring. What else can little owls do?

Olwen longs to be just like hare, squirrel and bear but no matter how hard she tries she can't hop, scamper or roar. That's not what owls do. But the little owl soon discovers that she might be able to do something just as wonderful. Can Olwen find her wings and soar?

This sweet and charming picture book sensitively explores the feeling of longing to be different and celebrates embracing what makes us special. With expressive, intricate illustrations, this is a lively story created by mother-and-daughter team Nora and Pirkko-Liisa Surojegin.

Review Quotes

Praise for Otto and the Secret Light of Christmas

'The text uses complex sentence structures, rich vocabulary, and excellent dramatic pacing, with a different imaginative encounter in each chapter... Full-color illustrations in a soft-focus, mysterious style are interspersed throughout the story, with lots of full-page illustrations as well as smaller ones. Every spread has some sort of illustration to help keep readers engaged. An intriguing read-aloud for younger children and an entertaining choice for independent readers who like fantasy.'
- Kirkus Reviews

'In this charming storybook a mother and daughter team have painted a captivating picture of the landscape, wildlife and folklore of Finland. Otto and his friends are brought to life in sensitive, detailed illustrations on every page.'
- Midwest Book Review

'The illustrations are beyond marvelous.'
- Youth Services Book Review

'A beautiful Christmas tale that is rich in references to Finnish folklore and culture, and the soft, intricate, glowing illustrations added so much to my appreciation of the story. I enjoyed the richness of the language. The descriptions of the forest, scenery, and characters are absolutely magical, and new vocabulary is used. I can imagine parents and children cuddled up, drinking hot chocolate and reading this book together over the holidays.'
- Oregon Coast Youth Book Review

About the Author

Nora Surojegin is an author, illustrator and graphic designer from Finland. She lives by the sea in Espoo, where she enjoys creating imaginative worlds. Her books have been translated into several languages. Nora created Otto and the Secret Light of Christmas (Floris Books) in collaboration with her mother, Pirkko-Liisa. Pirkko-Liisa Surojegin is a well-known Finnish illustrator, renowned for her delicate, detailed portrayals of Finland's wildlife and folklore. She graduated in 1977 from Helsinki University of Art and Design and has since illustrated many books loved by children and adults. She is the illustrator of Otto and the Secret Light of Christmas, co-created with her daughter Nora, and An Illustrated Kalevala, both published by Floris Books.