Feathers, Talons & Book Magic: An Owl Encounter

There’s something magical about watching an owl take flight—silent, swift, and utterly mesmerising. As a children’s author creating a middle-grade book series featuring native Australian wildlife, I want every glide, gaze, and beak click to feel authentic on the page.

I recently had the opportunity to spend time with the knowledgeable team at Raptor Vision, thanks to a Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) grant, a partnership between the Queensland Government and Sunshine Coast Council to support local arts and culture in regional Queensland.

Raptor Vision is a Sunshine Coast-based rehabilitation and education centre dedicated to the conservation of birds of prey—Owls, Hawks, Falcons, and Eagles. It was the perfect place to get up close with some of the remarkable birds that have inspired key characters in my upcoming middle-grade fantasy trilogy, The Feathers of Farwood, being published by Riveted Press.

Why owls?

Because they’re mysterious, majestic, and deeply entwined with our Australian ecosystems. While my stories are filled with magic, transformation, and adventure, I want them grounded in real, recognisable nature.

It’s important to me that Aussie readers, especially kids, see familiar landscapes and wildlife reflected in the stories they read.

Owls aren’t just loved in Australia—they’re adored around the world. Their magical charm is something I think readers everywhere will connect with.

In many ways, the owls in my books are both characters and metaphors, guiding young readers through adventures that explore courage, belonging, and the natural world around us.

Meet my feathered ‘consultants’

• Talon, a striking Masked Owl, lives up to her name with large talons and an even larger personality.
• BB the Boobook, who flitted to my arm for a visit after a tiff with the local butcher birds. (A very sweet moment—thanks, BB).
• A Barking Owl, whose call genuinely sounded like a dog! Brilliant yellow eyes on Eclipse.
• And of course, Luna the Eastern Barn Owl—the star of Book One. Elegant with her heart-shaped face and lovely nature. Luna sometimes helps out with local weddings as the feathery ring-bearer.

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Owls in children’s books

Owls have featured in many of my childhood favourites.

There’s the (sometimes frightening) Old Brown in The Tale of Squirrel Nutkin by Beatrix Potter.

Hedwig, the loyal Snowy Owl from Harry Potter, braves storms and spells to deliver letters, and is a companion/source of comfort to Harry.

And who could forget Owl from Winnie-the-Pooh. A little pompous, a little long-winded, but always well-meaning.

Owls pop up again and again in children’s literature for a reason. They’re wise, mysterious, and just the right amount of magical. Whether they’re guardians, messengers, or comic relief, owls bring something special to every story.

Want to learn more about my debut middle-grade book trilogy?

Follow my journey to publication right here on my website, or over on my Author Facebook Page and Instagram. Book One in The Feathers of Farwood trilogy will be released in early 2026, followed by Book Two later in the year, and the final instalment in 2027.

To all the local teachers, school librarians, and fellow nature lovers—thank you for championing children’s literature and helping stories like mine take flight.

Wildlife Conservation Australia

For more information about protecting our Australian wildlife, some good resources include Australian Wildlife Conservation, Wildlife Warriors / Australia Zoo, and Bush Heritage Australia.