More Than Words: Graphic Novels in Kentucky's Libraries

Graphic Novel Review - Owly: The Way Home & The Bittersweet Summer

Writer/Artist: Andy Runton

Publisher: Top Shelf Productions

Format: Softcover, b&w, 157 p.

Pub Info: Sept. 2004

ISBN: 1891830627

Price: $10.00

If you're ever in need of a friend to help you over the rough spots in life, then Owly is your man, or rather, your bird. A congenial fellow who's more concerned about others than himself, this rotund, saucer-eyed avian is both wise and compassionate. Readers accompany Owly on two different adventures in this volume and both stories ingeniously demonstrate the basic qualities of true friendship.

In the first story, "The Way Home," Owly stays busy helping smaller birds by filling their bird feeders and also frees some desperate fireflies left in a glass jar. Owly's resolve to help everyone he can is put to the test when a rainstorm threatens to drown a little water-logged worm.

After his rescue from the mud-puddle, the worm is mortified that he's been saved by a bird and expects to become Owley's next dinner. Instead, Owly nurses the young worm back to health and helps find the lost worm's parents. A happy reunion is shared by all, but when Owly decides it's time return home, his new pal gains permission to go back with Owly.

This sets the stage for the next adventure, "The Bittersweet Summer." Owly and his worm-friend (I was unable to discover the name of the worm, which is a very cute character and needs a cute name to go along with him) are busy planting a spring garden. Their expressions reflect the fun they're having as they work together, but their labor is interrupted by a mysterious creature that is later identified as a hummingbird.

Soon, Owly and the worm become fast friends with a hummingbird couple and share many happy summer adventures. However, as winter approaches, the tiny birds must leave and Owly learns some important lessons about friendship.

Owly's stories are told through simple black and white drawings with few, if any, words added to the illustrations. Readers must understand the story's message entirely through visual interpretation of the characters' expressions and actions. This is where Runton's artwork shines through, when the glance of an eye or the slant of a mouth can speak volumes.

Due to the lack of words, this would be an excellent book to share with children who have not yet developed reading skills but can easily interpret the action and follow the plot with Owly and his friends. But don't make the mistake of just labeling this a "kiddie" book without taking a look yourself. Adults can use a good dose of fuzzy, feel-good vibes every once in a while and this book will leave both kids and adults in a better mood after they've spent some time with Owly.