Get ready to have a blast while you learn all about the names for various groups of animals in the newest children's book from award-winning author Devin Scillian.
A Parliament of Owls is a light-hearted story in which a young girl and her camera follow along as lots of animals begin to gather for... For what you ask? That's the question that will only be answered at the end of the story so you better keep reading!
Animals as varied as snakes, giraffes, and hummingbirds are all coming together but it's not just one or two of each animal but a group of each. That means that young readers, without realizing it, will be learning all about collective nouns as they read about a "murder of crows," "a warren of rabbits," and a "prickle of porcupines" as well as a gaggle of other terms.
A troop of gorillas marched right in,
wearing their usual scowls.
And then there arrived a mischief of mice,
keeping close watch on the owls.
Funny, silly, and delightful are a few of the words that come to mind when trying to describe A Parliament of Owls. Most older readers will likely know many of the terms used for groups of different types of animals but I suspect there will be several in this book that even the most seasoned reader will not be familiar with. Combine that with the curiosity factor - why are the animals gathering and where are they going - and this becomes a book youngsters will not be able to put down. And a review would not be complete without mentioning the absolutely gorgeous artwork that is bright and playful in nature. This is one book that you will want to add to your child's bookshelf.
Quill says: A Parliament of Owls is another delightful book from author Devin Scillian that youngsters will want to read over and over again. Enjoy!
