We Taught an Owl to Fly: A Heartwarming True Story That Inspires Kindness and Hope
Every child remembers a story that stays close to the heart long after the final page is turned. We Taught an Owl to Fly: A True Story of Kindness, Hope, and Letting Go by Lizziee Jerez is one of those rare picture books that leaves readers with warmth, wonder, and a meaningful lesson about love and compassion.
A True Story That Celebrates Family and Compassion
Inspired by a real childhood memory, We Taught an Owl to Fly transports young readers to the Dominican Republic, where a tropical summer storm changes the life of a tiny baby owl. Separated from its family, the helpless bird is discovered by four caring siblings who decide to rescue it and bring it into their home.
From the very beginning, the story shines with kindness and sincerity. Lizziee gently unfolds the family’s journey as they feed the little owl, protect it, and patiently watch it grow stronger each day. The book beautifully captures how small acts of care can create lasting memories while teaching children the importance of showing empathy toward animals and nature.
The story also reminds families that love often means encouraging growth. As the owl becomes healthier and more confident, the siblings face the emotional challenge of helping it return to the wild. This touching message introduces children to the idea that true care sometimes means allowing others to follow the path they were always meant to take.
Why This Picture Book Belongs on Every Family Bookshelf
Every page offers more than an entertaining adventure. The book introduces children to wildlife through a gentle, engaging story inspired by real events. Young readers naturally become curious about how animals live, grow, and survive in nature while following the unforgettable journey of the little owl.
Soft, timeless illustrations add another layer of charm. They create a peaceful reading experience that perfectly complements the emotional warmth of the story. Whether it is shared during bedtime or read together in a classroom, the illustrations invite children to slow down, observe, and appreciate the beauty of the natural world.
Lizziee also weaves valuable life lessons into every chapter without making them feel overwhelming. Compassion, patience, courage, responsibility, and family support are presented through simple moments that children can easily understand. Parents and grandparents will appreciate how naturally these lessons become part of meaningful conversations after reading.
The book also makes a thoughtful gift for birthdays, holidays, classrooms, and young animal lovers. Its comforting tone and uplifting message encourage children to revisit the story again and again, discovering new details each time they open its pages.
Available on Amazon, this heartfelt picture book offers families an opportunity to create lasting reading traditions while sharing a story inspired by genuine love for animals.
A Story That Leaves a Lasting Impression
One of the most remarkable qualities of We Taught an Owl to Fly is its authenticity. Because the story is based on Lizziee’s own childhood experience, every emotion feels honest and relatable. Readers can easily imagine the excitement of finding the tiny owl, the responsibility of caring for it, and the bittersweet joy of watching it finally spread its wings.
The author’s lifelong love for animals shines throughout the book. Years after rescuing the baby owl with her siblings, Lizziee chose to preserve that treasured memory so future generations could experience its message. Her hope is simple yet powerful. She wants children to notice the world around them, care for living creatures, and understand that even the smallest act of kindness can make a meaningful difference.
The story encourages curiosity without losing its emotional heart. Children laugh, wonder, and cheer as the owl grows stronger, while adults appreciate the gentle reminder that compassion begins with everyday choices. It is this balance of warmth, honesty, and hope that makes the book memorable for readers of every age.
About the Author
Lizziee Jerez is a designer, storyteller, and lifelong animal lover whose passion for nature inspired her first children’s picture book. Growing up in the Dominican Republic, she experienced the unforgettable rescue of a tiny baby owl alongside her siblings after a tropical storm. Decades later, Lizziee transformed that cherished memory into We Taught an Owl to Fly to inspire children and families to embrace kindness, protect wildlife, and treasure the simple moments that shape a lifetime.
Conclusion
A Gentle Story That Families Will Treasure
We Taught an Owl to Fly: A True Story of Kindness, Hope, and Letting Go is much more than a charming picture book. It is an invitation for families to celebrate compassion, courage, and the quiet beauty of helping others grow. With its true story, heartfelt message, and beautiful illustrations, this memorable book deserves a special place on every child’s bookshelf and promises to become a family favorite for years to come.