Owls have been depicted in literature, folklore, film, and music throughout history. Here are some books with and about owls. And if you’d like to learn more about cultural depictions of owl, please visit UniGuide’s post on owl meanings and symbolism. Have fun!
Harry Potter Books
By J.K. Rowling
Is it a coincidence that J.K. Rowling has the word “owl” in her name? The Harry Potter stories have brought renewed fascination and reverence for owls. A great reference about the owls in the Harry Potter stories is Laura Erickson’s For the Birds blog.
I Heard the Owl Call My Name
By Margaret Craven
I Heard the Owl Call My Name is a best-seller that takes place in the mid-1960s. It’s the story of a young Anglican vicar who goes to live in a Native American village in British Columbia. I won’t give away what happens, but it’s a must-read.
The Chronicles of Narnia
By C.S. Lewis
Published in the 1950s, The Chronicles of Narnia is a series of seven fantasy novels by C. S. Lewis. Like Harry Potter, both children and adults enjoy these stories filled with magic, mythical beasts, and talking animals (including owls.)
Owls of the World: A Photographic Guide
By Heimo Mikkola
Owls of the World is a comprehensive guide full of beautiful photos that every owl lover should have on their coffee table.
The Hidden Lives of Owls: The Science and Spirit of Nature’s Most Elusive Birds
By Leigh Calvez
A New York Times bestseller, the Hidden Lives of Owls helps us to understand these mystical birds better and how our lives as humans are so interconnected with them.
And if you’re not in the mood for readings, here are…
Movies with Owls
Owls Documentary
This is a lovely documentary from Clifford Garrard about owls that taught me a great deal as I endeavored to write this post.
