Knight Owl (Caldecott Honor Book)

A NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER - A CALDECOTT HONOR AWARD WINNER

A determined Owl builds strength and confidence in this medieval picture book about the real mettle of a hero: wits, humor, and heart.

Since the day he hatched, Owl dreamed of becoming a real knight. He may not be the biggest or the strongest, but his sharp nocturnal instincts can help protect the castle, especially since many knights have recently gone missing. While holding guard during Knight Night Watch, Owl is faced with the ultimate trial--a frightening intruder. It's a daunting duel by any measure. But what Owl lacks in size, he makes up for in good ideas.

Full of wordplay and optimism, this surprising display of bravery proves that cleverness (and friendship) can rule over brawn.

NAMED ONE OF THE BEST BOOKS OF THE YEAR BY The Washington Post - NPR - Kirkus Reviews - Bookpage - Good Housekeeping

★ "[A] story with an amusing twist and a cute-as-a-button protagonist that charms on every level. This will satisfy a wide range of readers, from Dragons Love Tacos fans to wannabe knights." --Booklist, starred review

"It's dangerous to label any picture book a 'contemporary classic, ' but Knight Owl tempts you to try.... Sweet and epic by turns."―NPR

"Adorably earnest and gallant.... A charming blend of whimsy and medieval heroism highlighting the triumph of brains over brawn."―Kirkus Reviews

"Through delicately conveyed firelight, deep shadows, and even an imagined tapestry, Christopher Denise provides this cracking tale with illustrations that feel like fully fleshed animated classics as Owl's actions subvert a traditional conflict story line."―Publishers Weekly

Author: Christopher Denise
Publisher: Christy Ottaviano Books-Little Brown and Hach
Published: 03/15/2022
Pages: 48
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 0.90lbs
Size: 11.00h x 9.20w x 0.60d
ISBN: 9780316310628
Audience: Ages 4-8

Accelerated Reader:
Reading Level: 2.6
Point Value: 0.5
Interest Level: Lower Grade
Quiz #/Name: 516772 / Knight Owl


Award: Caldecott Medal - Honor Book


Review Citation(s):
Kirkus Reviews 01/01/2022
Publishers Weekly 01/10/2022
Booklist 03/15/2022 pg. 79
School Library Journal 04/29/2022 pg. 1
BookPage 03/01/2022
Hornbook Guide to Children 01/01/2023 - Recommended, Satisfactory

About the Author

Christopher Denise is the award-winning creator of Knight Owl, which was a New York Times bestseller; a Caldecott Honor Award winner; an ALA-ALSC Notable Book for Children; a Zena Sutherland Award winner for Excellence in Children's Literature; was hailed as a "contemporary classic" by NPR; and was named one of the best books of the year by The Washington Post, NPR, Kirkus Reviews, Bookpage, and Good Housekeeping. Christopher is also the illustrator of many critically acclaimed books for young readers, including Groundhug Day and Firefly Hollow. He invites you to visit him online at christopherdenise.com.