It's never too early to teach children how to love and protect the planet, which is why The Owls of Sedgemount is a must-have for your young one's bookshelf. Written by local teacher and author, Russ Thompson, and illustrated by Paige Fernandez, a Memphis-based artist, the story is about an old owl and a young boy named Robbie who work together to stop the deforestation that is destroying the natural habitat the owl calls home.
Just long enough for a bedtime story, and told in catchy rhyme that is reminiscent of Dr. Seuss' beloved Lorax, The Owls of Sedgemount explores themes of environmentalism and protecting natural habitats in a way that young minds can grasp. That—combined with the fun antics of the owls as they form a plan to save their home from humans—makes this a great read for any age, parents and caregivers included.
The story centers on the owls, who begin to realize that their home is being logged and they'll soon lose it if something isn't done:
They all looked and they knew it to be true
But they were helpless and hopeless about what to do
For most of the wood had been logged to the ground
Only what was behind them was still around
The story ends on a positive note, however, which is what we all wish for our children and the planet they will inherit. With their quick wit, along with the help of a young boy, Robbie, who wants to stand up for what is right, the owls come up with a sneaky plan to make sure the humans don't take any more of the trees that the owls call home.
You can pick up your copy of The Owls of Sedgemount at Novel, in Memphis, TN. Digital copies are also available through Amazon and Lulu.