This is one in our Double Scoop Sundae series featuring a pair of thematically-related books and ideas for teachers and library program developers seeking ways to extend storytime with them.
Owls have long fascinated children with their wide eyes, quiet flight, and mysterious nocturnal habits. Their presence in stories sparks imagination and invites questions about the natural world. For families and educators looking to explore all things owl-related, websites like Owl Research Institute and Audubon for Kids offer fun facts, learning tools, and owl-themed content to deepen children’s curiosity.
Two beautifully illustrated picture books—WHEN LITTLE OWL MET LITTLE RABBIT written by Przemysław Wechterowicz and illustrated by Emilia Dziubak, and THE OWL WHO DARED written by Stephanie Stansbie and illustrated by Frances Ives—address that sense of wonder. These books invite young readers to explore themes of friendship, perseverance, and courage through the eyes of young owls discovering their place in the world.
When Little Owl Met Little Rabbit
Set in the branches of a great oak tree, WHEN LITTLE OWL MET LITTLE RABBIT, published by Floris Books and translated from Polish by Polly Lawson, is a gentle, poetic tale about two young animals who share the same home but live completely different lives. Little Rabbit is awake with the sun, while Little Owl wakes with the moon. Though they’ve never met, they’ve heard stories about each other from their parents, and both are curious about what it would be like to meet.
Their longing to connect comes true one special day when a full moon and a falling star allow them to break free of their routines. In a moment of magic, they wish to see each other’s world—and their shadows switch, granting them the chance to play in daylight and nightlight together. The story gracefully explores themes of curiosity, wonder, and the power of dreams to bring people (or animals) together, even when they seem very different.
THE OWL WHO DARED
In THE OWL WHO DARED, published by Tiger Tales, we meet a young owl who is afraid to fly. Every attempt ends in a tumble, and his frustration grows. But with gentle encouragement from his mother and inspiration from watching other animals tackle their own challenges, he begins to understand that bravery isn’t about never falling—it’s about trying again.
This story is both heartfelt and empowering. The soft, dreamy illustrations pair beautifully with its message of perseverance and courage. It’s a perfect read for any child facing a new challenge—whether it’s learning to ride a bike, start school, or make new friends.
Beyond the Books: Craft and Extensions
Pairing these books with interactive activities can help young readers connect more deeply with the stories and their themes. Here are a few creative ways to extend the experiences presented in this pair of picture books:
Looking for a simple and group-friendly owl-themed craft? With some empty toilet paper rolls and minimal other supplies, they can create wearable owls with these step-by-step instructions. Wearing their creations, the group can flap their arms while playing follow-the-leader.
Want to make an owl who flies? Use a paper plate and a popsicle stick along with cardstock and other common craft supplies to make a flying owl. This site provides step by step directions with lots of photos illustrating both supplies and kid-friendly methods of creating their own flying owls.
Wonder how rescued baby owls look when care is provided by wildlife rehabilitators (or just want to enjoy cute pictures of owls)? Learn about how owls are handled, the kind of care they may need and receive while you coo over their pictures at the website Owls in Towels.
Both WHEN LITTLE OWL MET LITTLE RABBIT and THE OWL WHO DARED encourage children to embrace their uniqueness while also reminding them of the bravery it takes to grow, connect, and try something new. Whether read aloud at bedtime or explored through art and discussion in the classroom, these stories offer heartwarming ways to talk about empathy, bravery, and the beauty of nighttime creatures.
By extending the stories through crafts, movement, and reflection, children are given the chance not just to read—but to imagine, create, and soar.