I feel a bit mean saying this, but is there a formula sent out on how to write a book for children, and in capitals it will say: ALWAYS INCLUDE AN OWL.

So take one fluffy wee owl, add something it's afraid of (the dark, flying, being alone, the economy), throw in a splash of friends and an older mentor, who has also had to overcome their own fear, whizz it altogeher and hey presto: one cute predictable bed-time story

The saving grace for this one was the no-nonsense grandpa, who was doing a spot of owl-sitting and decided in his infinite wisdom that the young owls were clearly ready to fly (I think we all know that if they had been ready their parents would have taught them.. But oh no grandad knows better!)

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