Ruru stretches his wings and sails into the darkness. His call echoes in a child's dream.
Ruru, also known as a morepork, is Aotearoa's only surviving species of native owl. This book, set in an urban landscape, follows Ruru's nocturnal activities, where he hunts prey, feeds his babies and navigates the dangers lurking within his environment.
Author Katie Furze uses creative non-fiction to tell Ruru's story, with the story interspersed with interesting fact boxes about the bird.
Readers may recognise the format of the book, with Furze drawing on her book Tuatara: A Living Treasure to tell Ruru's story. Both books are fantastic resources, especially for those in primary schools, with the story both entertaining and informing. Further information and a bibliography at the end of the book adds to its value.
Once again, Furze has teamed up with illustrator Ned Barraud. Barraud's love of the natural world shines throughout the pages, as is standard. I was worried the bird's nocturnal schedule might dampen Barraud's fantastic illustrations. I need not have worried. He uses colour and contrast to perfect effect, bringing the night sky to life. The cover is absolutely hypnotic, drawing readers into the fascinating world of a ruru.
This is another fantastic book from Furze and Barraud. Books about our natural world help teach our younger generation to understand and respect the world around us. Together, Furze and Barraud are highlighting the animals that make Aotearoa so unique, encouraging our younger readers to take proactive steps to ensure their survival. I can't wait to see what animal the pair introduce us to next.
Reviewer: Rebekah Lyell
Scholastic