I was so eager to read this book that I pre-ordered it. I love Carmen Mok’s artwork for Kate DiCamillo’s new children’s book, Orris and Timble: The Beginning. It’s the first in a trilogy, but it stands alone. Designed for ages 4-8, this is definitely a book some adults will appreciate as well. I’m not “into” owls as some of my close friends are. But, I didn’t steer you wrong with Christopher Denise’s Knight Owl a couple years ago. It went on to be a Caldecott Honor book. I’m not going to steer you wrong with this one. It’s delightful. My sister, Linda, and I will both attest to that.

Orris is a rat who lives in an abandoned barn. He’s papered his little nest with pages from discarded books, and he has his treasures, a red velvet slipper, a marble, and, most important to the story, a sardine can with the words, “Make the good and noble choice!”

One evening, Orris hears a screech in the barn, and sneaks out of his nest to find a young owl caught in a mousetrap. Knowing owls eat rats, Orris returns to his nest. But, he can’t sleep. His sardine can reminds him, “Make the good and noble choice!” And, Orris sneaks out, and finds the little owl, Timble, asking for help. What’s a rat to do?

Orris is an unlikely hero, and he’s an unlikely storyteller. Before he releases Timble, he tells him the story of the lion and the mouse. And, young Timble returns to hear more stories.

The illustrations! Without going into more detail, I love the pictures of Timble’s one eye peering into Orris’ nest. And, I’ll share one picture with you. This is Kate DiCamillo’s favorite illustration, as shared on her official Facebook page. It’s Orris, alone in the field. DiCamillo says it captures how it feels to be alone in the world.

I loved Orris and Timble. I know this isn’t what you expected to find on my page today, but it’s a beautiful story, a lovely book, and I had to share.

Orris and Timble by Kate DiCamillo. Candlewick Press, 2024. ISBN 9781536222791 (hardcover), 76p.

FTC Full disclosure – I bought my copy.