Stunning pictures. Liked the writing style - interesting and engaging. Well-researched. Loved the history and mythology of owls. Packed with information. Definitely a keeper. Also loved the section on the art of owling. An excellent book for owl-lovers like me.

I would like to thank NetGalley and Timber Press for the ARC.

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.

John Shewey’s The Owl Handbook is an exquisite exploration of one of nature’s most enigmatic creatures. This comprehensive guide delves into the lives, habits, and cultural significance of owls, offering readers a richly illustrated journey through the world of these fascinating birds. With detailed profiles of 19 North American owl species and a survey of 200 owls worldwide.

The Owl Handbook is a treasure trove of information and stunning photography that brings the mysterious world of owls to life.

The book is divided into sections that cover various aspects of owl biology, behavior, and conservation. Shewey’s writing is accessible yet informative, making complex topics understandable without oversimplifying them.

One of the standout features of this book is its exploration of owls in folklore and mythology.

The photography in The Owl Handbook is nothing short of spectacular. Each image is carefully chosen to complement the text, showcasing the owls in their natural habitats and highlighting their distinctive features.

The Owl Handbook is an essential addition to any nature lover’s library. John Shewey has created a work that is both educational and visually captivating, offering readers a deeper appreciation for these remarkable birds.

Love, loved this book. I am an owl nut and knew some of what was already in this book but there was also a lot I didn't know.

The Owl Handbook is a splendid and thorough exploration of North American owls, owling, and the absorbing passion of discovering these magnificent birds. It is informative and entertaining and is lavishly illustrated. Shewey is a dedicated owler and it shines through in his clear prose. Great for any owl or bird enthusiast, the Handbook is full of owl lore, absorbing history, species descriptions, and practical tips. Highly recommended.

ARC was given by NetGalley & Timber Press.


I love a good book about owls especially as someone who's worked with owls and been around them for a very long time. I really loved this. I love relearning information about my favorite animals and the photography in this book was just stunning. I think a lot of owl lovers, bird watchers, those who are new to being acquainted with these magnificent creatures will learn a lot from this book and find even more things to fall in love with when it comes to owls. I definitely recommend picking this book up especially if you're someone who loves owls.


All thoughts, feelings, experiences, and opinions are honest and my own.

The Owl Handbook was a pure delight! As a novice owl lover this book was everything I didn't know I needed about these majestic creatures. Gorgeous spreads, brilliant layout and impressive content. You need this book!

This is a beautifully illustrated introduction to owls and owling. It focuses on owls in the US and Canada, but also includes a reference section on owls around the world. There’s some great tips on how to behave around owls from the International Owl Center. I loved all the interesting facts and details because they really are truly stunning birds. The info here on how to get started owling has a lot of good tips and tricks, and the author also covers some conservation needs to be aware of for maintaining the owl population. A solid, accessible read for anyone interested in learning more about owls.

A gorgeous info-rich delight for birders and nature lovers alike! Out 1/14/25.

#Timber Press #johnshewey #netgalley