Owl Know How was created by artist Cat Rabbit and animator Isobel Knowles. Cat is a textile-based artist working in soft sculpture, and has a cult following in both art and craft circles. Isobel's work spans many types of animation and she has won awards at several prestigious festivals.
A complete collaboration, both Cat and Isobel wrote the text, while Cat created the softies and Isobel photographed them - all in all crafting an incredibly beautiful book for little ones.
Welcome to Cloud Town, home to Cornelia Rabbit and her best friend Orvi. Cornelia loves owls. She has them all over her house and she even makes her own flying owls!
One day, Cornelia wakes to a cracking noise. Something quite bizarre is happening. Branches are popping up all over town, right through the houses of rabbits everywhere! But Cornelia has an idea . . . she calls on everyone's help to make an owl factory.
Why? Well, you'll have to read the book to find out! Let's just say this ingenious little rabbit is a brilliant planner and Cloud Town is soon free of nasty black branches.
Visually, this book is sheer delight - the felt creations, the cloudy land, the placement of housing and other elements are truly divine. The story is warm, funny and charming - and my only criticism would be that the book suffers from a generic 'three cheers for Cornelia' ending, rather than a clever, poignant or quirky finale, which would have really sealed the book-perfection deal.
Nevertheless, this book is a must-have for serious picture book lovers, for not-so-serious picture book lovers, for anyone who adores beauty or has heard of beauty. There is also an owl pattern in the back of the book for those who want to get crafty and make their own little bird.
A stunning book from two very talented people. Can't wait for more.
Title: Owl Know How
Author: Cat Rabbit and Isobel Knowles
Creator: Cat Rabbit
Photographer: Isobel Knowles
Publisher: Thames & Hudson, $24.95 RRP
Publication Date: 1 April 2012
Format: Hard cover
ISBN: 9780500500323
For ages: 5+
Type: Picture Book