Wesley the Owl: The Remarkable Love Story of an Owl and His Girl

by Stacey O'Brien


While I normally choose fiction books when picking a literature genre, a close friend gave me this book to read saying, "Just try it". I read it in 2 days. While it is a shorter book than I would have liked, it is rich with emotion and fascinating owl facts. You will often find yourself thinking, "I didn't know that!" or "Really?".


This book is a lovely memoir of O'Brien and her 19 year journey taking care of an owlet that came into her care at just 4 days old. Being a biologist and researcher, O'Brien was concise and informational with this book-she has a wealth of knowledge for you to soak up and enjoy. Her emotional connection with Wesley and their devotion to one another was one of a kind. She documents his intelligence, emotions, actions, and their close bond with vivid description. O'Brien also includes pictures of Wesley at different points throughout his life to help enhance the book. You will absolutely fall in love and be envious of their story.


My few negative criticisms of the book are minor. O'Brien is a writer who loves to detail everything, almost to a fault. She gives you not only the endearing and adorable memories, but also the gross and disgusting. Some might say it was unnecessary. While it was shocking at first just how in depth she went, she tells you everything. It is raw and very real. Take it or leave it.


If you are an animal lover of any kind, you will enjoy this book. If you do not know about or think much of birds, this will definitely change your mind. I would highly recommend it.


Rating: 4 out of 5


Up Next: Hearts in Atlantis by Stephen King