Dickens & Rumi
Cover of THE CHRISTMAS OWL

book

THE CHRISTMAS OWL

Ellen Kalish and Gideon Sterer

The true story of the owl found in the 2020 Rockefeller Center Christmas tree. (Ages 4 to 8)

Ages 4+Source checked

Why this age? The story and picture-book format suit preschool and early elementary readers. Brief concern about the owl being lost or endangered is gentle and resolves positively. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age4+

Strongest cautions

  • Frightening scenes1/5
  • Products & advertising1/5
  • Religious themes1/5

Strongest positives

  • Good role models4/5
  • Kindness & empathy4/5
  • Positive messages3/5

What’s in it?

Products & advertising1/5
Why this rating?

No commercial promotion.

Religious themes1/5
Why this rating?

While set during Christmas, the focus is on the wildlife rescue story.

Frightening scenes1/5
Why this rating?

No scary content.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience1/5
Why this rating?

The owl shows quiet resilience while recovering.

Creativity & curiosity2/5
Why this rating?

Encourages curiosity about nature and the world of birds.

Educational value2/5
Why this rating?

Provides insight into wildlife rehabilitation and rescue.

Kindness & empathy4/5
Why this rating?

Kindness to animals is the central theme of the book.

Positive messages3/5
Why this rating?

Promotes empathy, caring for wildlife, and the importance of helping those in need.

Good role models4/5
Why this rating?

The adults model compassionate, responsible care by rescuing and nurturing an injured owl. Their example is strongly positive, though the limited evidence does not establish exceptional character development.

Family discussion

Talk about it

Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. Which character was the best role model, and what did they do that you admired?
  2. Which moment felt most tense or frightening? What helped the characters handle fear?
  3. Which choice in THE CHRISTMAS OWL would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in THE CHRISTMAS OWL, and what caused that change?
Discuss this title with other parents

Community reactions

What families noticed

Add your perspective

Sign in from the homepage to rate this title.

Where to get it

Find in a libraryBuy on Bookshop.orgBuy on Amazon

As an Amazon Associate and Bookshop.org affiliate, Dickens & Rumi may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.

If you liked this

Try something nearby

Related by age fit, format, and catalogue context.

You’re hereTHE CHRISTMAS OWL
UNLIMITED SQUIRRELS: I WANT TO SLEEP UNDER THE STARS!Mo WillemsAges 5+A House for Hermit CrabEric Carle · 1987Ages 3+I LOST MY TOOTH!Mo WillemsAges 4+

These content notes are a starting point, not a guarantee. Review the evidence and use your own judgment before choosing a title.

Report an incorrect rating