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The Happy Owls
A beautiful, classic addition to the family bookshelf—with beloved Swiss designer, Celestino Piatti’s fun and retro illustrations!
This classic fable about enjoying the miracle of everyday life, first illustrated by Celestino Piatti in 1963, is being reissued in celebration of Piatti’s distinctive artwork. Known for his innovative use of fonts, Piatti once said, “You can draw an owl a thousand times, and never find out its secret.”
Why are these owls so happy? That’s just what the chickens, ducks, and geese want to know. But when they send a peacock over to find out why, they’re incredulous at the reply. How could anyone be happy simply to see the rain and sunshine? What could be so joyful about the flowers and butterflies?
“Every imaginative child will cherish this rare and beautiful book.”—New York Times Book Review
“It should be two stars-- one for each eye. The use of brilliant color is beyond simple description-- it's an eye-fest.”—Kirkus Reviews, Starred Review
This classic fable about enjoying the miracle of everyday life, first illustrated by Celestino Piatti in 1963, is being reissued in celebration of Piatti’s distinctive artwork. Known for his innovative use of fonts, Piatti once said, “You can draw an owl a thousand times, and never find out its secret.”
Why are these owls so happy? That’s just what the chickens, ducks, and geese want to know. But when they send a peacock over to find out why, they’re incredulous at the reply. How could anyone be happy simply to see the rain and sunshine? What could be so joyful about the flowers and butterflies?
“Every imaginative child will cherish this rare and beautiful book.”—New York Times Book Review
“It should be two stars-- one for each eye. The use of brilliant color is beyond simple description-- it's an eye-fest.”—Kirkus Reviews, Starred Review
32 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 1963
6 people are currently reading
119 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
November 19, 2021
This is a fable “whose origins go back to the nineteenth century”. This is a story book which will have to be explained to a young child by an adult reading the book.
There is a pair of owls who live close to a barnyard. They always seemed happy to be together in their warm nest in a tree. The barnyard animals were always fighting about something, more food, more EVERYTHING!! Finally they send the peacock, in all of his finery, to ask the owls why they are always happy.
Explained in descriptive prose, the owls explain how they take joy in nature and it’s seasons, in the beauty all around them. The barnyard animals still don’t understand and go back to their quarreling.
The illustrations are very classic looking and appealing. A great book with a strong lesson to add to any child’s library.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher through NetGalley
There is a pair of owls who live close to a barnyard. They always seemed happy to be together in their warm nest in a tree. The barnyard animals were always fighting about something, more food, more EVERYTHING!! Finally they send the peacock, in all of his finery, to ask the owls why they are always happy.
Explained in descriptive prose, the owls explain how they take joy in nature and it’s seasons, in the beauty all around them. The barnyard animals still don’t understand and go back to their quarreling.
The illustrations are very classic looking and appealing. A great book with a strong lesson to add to any child’s library.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher through NetGalley
November 19, 2021
A really, really wise one I would say!
A basic life lesson: never try to explain what happiness means to you to the chaotic world especially to those people who will never understand what means the most to you.
I love the illustrations. The story surprised me! Well done, team 💯
Thank you author/artist for the advance reader copy.
A basic life lesson: never try to explain what happiness means to you to the chaotic world especially to those people who will never understand what means the most to you.
I love the illustrations. The story surprised me! Well done, team 💯
Thank you author/artist for the advance reader copy.
July 30, 2024
Eulenglück (The Happy Owls), with a text originally by Dutch artist Theo van Hoijtema (from 1895), a 1963 German translation by Erwin Burckhardt and accompanying pictures by Swiss graphic artist Celestino Piatti is probably the most universally known and famous of the picture books illustrated by Piatti (with something like six editions of the English language translation, of The Happy Owls listed on Goodreads, and yes, there are also French and Spanish translation of Eulenglück, but these are not or at least not yet on the Goodreads database).
However, I do have to wonder if Eulenglück (and any of the translations in fact) are actually more recognised for and because of the artwork than for and because of the story, the actual printed words. Because and honestly, while I in fact do very vividly recall my grandmother reading Eulenglück to me when I was about five years old (in the autumn of 1971), I really only remember totally adoring the pictures (and in particular how Celestino Piatti visually renders his owls as appearing graceful, content, sweetly tempered and emanating wisdom whereas the barnyard fowl, the chickens, geese, peacocks etc. are depicted as being full of rage, discontented, arrogant and teeming with huge amounts of impatience), that I have fond "picture book" memories of illustrations that were aesthetically momentous and unforgettable for me as a five year old, while the presented text for Eulenglück I very soon forgot and in my opinion also for a very good and solid reason.
As while upon reading Eulenglück in 2023 I can certainly understand why Celestino Piatti's illustrations had such a profound visual impact on me as a child, and so much so that I can recall them in detail even more than fifty years later, well, Erwin Burkhardt's text (and by extension also Theo van Hoijtema's original narrative), the words might be adequate enough but they totally disappear into the background and become pretty easily forgotten and missing in action so to speak next to Piatti's aesthetically brilliant and wonderful illustrations (thus making Eulenglück an aesthetic delight but also at the same time not really a successful combination of images and text, and that for me, Eulenglück would be ranked with five stars if it were wordless and featured only Celestino Piatti's art, but that with the a bit subpar and not all that textually engaging and rather meh accompanying story, I can and will only rate Eulenglück with three stars).
However, I do have to wonder if Eulenglück (and any of the translations in fact) are actually more recognised for and because of the artwork than for and because of the story, the actual printed words. Because and honestly, while I in fact do very vividly recall my grandmother reading Eulenglück to me when I was about five years old (in the autumn of 1971), I really only remember totally adoring the pictures (and in particular how Celestino Piatti visually renders his owls as appearing graceful, content, sweetly tempered and emanating wisdom whereas the barnyard fowl, the chickens, geese, peacocks etc. are depicted as being full of rage, discontented, arrogant and teeming with huge amounts of impatience), that I have fond "picture book" memories of illustrations that were aesthetically momentous and unforgettable for me as a five year old, while the presented text for Eulenglück I very soon forgot and in my opinion also for a very good and solid reason.
As while upon reading Eulenglück in 2023 I can certainly understand why Celestino Piatti's illustrations had such a profound visual impact on me as a child, and so much so that I can recall them in detail even more than fifty years later, well, Erwin Burkhardt's text (and by extension also Theo van Hoijtema's original narrative), the words might be adequate enough but they totally disappear into the background and become pretty easily forgotten and missing in action so to speak next to Piatti's aesthetically brilliant and wonderful illustrations (thus making Eulenglück an aesthetic delight but also at the same time not really a successful combination of images and text, and that for me, Eulenglück would be ranked with five stars if it were wordless and featured only Celestino Piatti's art, but that with the a bit subpar and not all that textually engaging and rather meh accompanying story, I can and will only rate Eulenglück with three stars).
November 14, 2021
4 Stars
Oh, the illustrations are charming. They’ve been done using a traditional technique, something similar to block printing on sarees and dresses (Indians would know what I’m talking about). The result is old-school and beautiful.
The fable is about owls that are always happy while the other birds eat, drink, and fight through the day. When asked, the owls reply that they find beauty and peace in nature, thus being happy no matter what.
The birds don’t understand, but hey, the owls are wise and snuggle back into their home to be happy. I think adults would enjoy this more than kids. However, the book can show kids a different kind of art and interest them in various concepts and art forms.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and NorthSouth Books and am voluntarily leaving a review.
#TheHappyOwls #NetGalley
Oh, the illustrations are charming. They’ve been done using a traditional technique, something similar to block printing on sarees and dresses (Indians would know what I’m talking about). The result is old-school and beautiful.
The fable is about owls that are always happy while the other birds eat, drink, and fight through the day. When asked, the owls reply that they find beauty and peace in nature, thus being happy no matter what.
The birds don’t understand, but hey, the owls are wise and snuggle back into their home to be happy. I think adults would enjoy this more than kids. However, the book can show kids a different kind of art and interest them in various concepts and art forms.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and NorthSouth Books and am voluntarily leaving a review.
#TheHappyOwls #NetGalley
January 1, 2023
This was cute story about a pair of owls who are content to be together in their warm nest in a tree. The always bickering barnyard animals send the peacock to find out why this is.
The owls explain in great detail how they enjoy nature and the seasons. The barnyard animals refuse to understand and continue their quarreling. A good reminder we can still be content when others are not.
I liked the illustrations very classic look and think it adds to the charm of the book, making it a great addition to any child’s library.
***Thank you to the author, publisher, and Netgalley for the ARC of this book. The views and opinions expressed in this review are my own.***
The owls explain in great detail how they enjoy nature and the seasons. The barnyard animals refuse to understand and continue their quarreling. A good reminder we can still be content when others are not.
I liked the illustrations very classic look and think it adds to the charm of the book, making it a great addition to any child’s library.
***Thank you to the author, publisher, and Netgalley for the ARC of this book. The views and opinions expressed in this review are my own.***
September 24, 2013
Large, colorful watercolors with bold black outlines enhance this picture book story of two owls who live in peace with each other. Unfortunately, the barnyard fowl do not understand the owls' reasons for happiness, and so continue their contentious life styles. This book would make a good story time book on owls, or on peace.
March 7, 2015
Great story about enjoying life for what it is.
December 13, 2015
Great message and incredible, gorgeous illustrations. I would love a few prints!
July 22, 2015
Gorgeous book from the 60s and is about being happy by noticing the seasons and simple things.
November 5, 2021
This is a lovely classic that has an inspiring, positive, message. Two owls explain to a group of grumpy, quarreling, fighting chickens, ducks, and geese why they are always happy and have such a wonderful friendship. They impart the wisdom of their chosen choices ... choices that bring them untold delight and peace.
The owls love each season and find joy and contentment in all the beautiful things that transpire during their stay. Spring, summer, autumn and winter have unique qualities that both owls observe and appreciate. Engaging in each cycle brings them untold happiness as they witness nature's miracles all around them. Do the barnyard fowl receive the message that the owls impart to them or do they shrug off their wisdom, call it all nonsense and continue to live as before?
"The Happy Owls" was originally published in 1964 and is now being resurrected for younger generations to appreciate Piatti's phenomenal artwork and creative use of fonts. As Piatti once said himself, "You can draw an owl a thousand times, and never find out its secret." I highly recommend this book not only for parents to share but for classrooms and school libraries.
The owls love each season and find joy and contentment in all the beautiful things that transpire during their stay. Spring, summer, autumn and winter have unique qualities that both owls observe and appreciate. Engaging in each cycle brings them untold happiness as they witness nature's miracles all around them. Do the barnyard fowl receive the message that the owls impart to them or do they shrug off their wisdom, call it all nonsense and continue to live as before?
"The Happy Owls" was originally published in 1964 and is now being resurrected for younger generations to appreciate Piatti's phenomenal artwork and creative use of fonts. As Piatti once said himself, "You can draw an owl a thousand times, and never find out its secret." I highly recommend this book not only for parents to share but for classrooms and school libraries.
September 30, 2019
A cute story about happy owls. Very short.
August 8, 2014
The theme of this children’s book is to see the beauty in everyday life and in nature.
You can also read this review and others on my blog, Caught Read Handed.
I love owls. Love them. I even have an owl tattoo. So obviously when I saw this book at the library, I checked it out. What a lovely story!
The Happy Owls is about two owls that are inexplicably happy – inexplicable at least according to the chickens, ducks, and geese who live nearby. They decide to send the peacock over to find out why. After the owls explain, the other birds are skeptical at the response.
This book made me happy. Full stop. It is a lovely story about finding happiness in each other, nature, and life. The owls are just happy with their world, with their surroundings, and with life.
“When everything is green and growing and the trees nod their leafy crowns to us in the warm sunshine, we sit in a shady nook, in the cool forest and are at peace with the world.”
What a beautiful message. It reminds the reader to not be ignorant to life’s beauty. The world is full of beautiful things. The Happy Owls also says that it is okay to be happy being you. Stand apart from the rest of the crowd. If you are happy with your life, it doesn’t matter if anyone else gets it.
Love this one. I’ll definitely be buying a copy for my future kid(s).
You can also read this review and others on my blog, Caught Read Handed.
I love owls. Love them. I even have an owl tattoo. So obviously when I saw this book at the library, I checked it out. What a lovely story!
The Happy Owls is about two owls that are inexplicably happy – inexplicable at least according to the chickens, ducks, and geese who live nearby. They decide to send the peacock over to find out why. After the owls explain, the other birds are skeptical at the response.
This book made me happy. Full stop. It is a lovely story about finding happiness in each other, nature, and life. The owls are just happy with their world, with their surroundings, and with life.
“When everything is green and growing and the trees nod their leafy crowns to us in the warm sunshine, we sit in a shady nook, in the cool forest and are at peace with the world.”
What a beautiful message. It reminds the reader to not be ignorant to life’s beauty. The world is full of beautiful things. The Happy Owls also says that it is okay to be happy being you. Stand apart from the rest of the crowd. If you are happy with your life, it doesn’t matter if anyone else gets it.
Love this one. I’ll definitely be buying a copy for my future kid(s).
January 21, 2014
a beautiful picture book, from 1963 reissued in 2013. The original story goes back to the nineteenth century. Dutch artist Theo van Hoijtema wrote the words and drew the pictures for this fable. It was translated into German by Erwin Burckhardt, and he suggested Celestino Piatti draw the illustrations for the new edition. Piatti depicted the owl often - it appears in all seven of his picture books. His style - black outlines and vivid colors - is unmistakable. The owls in the books are approached by a group of farm animals, who demand to know why the owls are always happy. The owls try to tell them they are happy with the changes of seasons, and content in the beauty of each season. Not understanding, the animals return to the barnyard, still squabbling, and the owls snuggle together, and thinking their wise thoughts.
December 12, 2021
Digital ARC provided by Netgalley
Our mind is designed to think about the future, but at the same time it often remembers the past. In this whole equation, the present seems to matter less and less, so we tend to be pessimistic and always put evil first. No wonder we can't be completely happy under the circumstances.
The fable of Celestino Piatti, even if it was written a while ago, it still resonates with everything that happens nowadays. While all other animals are pessimistic and putting evil first, they cannot understand how the owls are so happy and not complaining. Even when they receive the answer to their question, it is very difficult to believe that the power of existing in the present can bring so much happiness.
The message sent by the owls is that if we learn to live in the present and adopt the motto "Carpe Diem," we may know true happiness.
Our mind is designed to think about the future, but at the same time it often remembers the past. In this whole equation, the present seems to matter less and less, so we tend to be pessimistic and always put evil first. No wonder we can't be completely happy under the circumstances.
The fable of Celestino Piatti, even if it was written a while ago, it still resonates with everything that happens nowadays. While all other animals are pessimistic and putting evil first, they cannot understand how the owls are so happy and not complaining. Even when they receive the answer to their question, it is very difficult to believe that the power of existing in the present can bring so much happiness.
The message sent by the owls is that if we learn to live in the present and adopt the motto "Carpe Diem," we may know true happiness.
May 18, 2012
The birds want to know the secret behind the two owls' happiness, and the owls give an answer that includes a description of the four seasons. It's a nice read, but the answer given by the owls does not match the initial portrayal of them as staying all the time in their place.
October 14, 2019
Simple story of why owls are happy and peaceful and the barnyard animals weren't. May not be totally clear to children.
Pictures are big, bold, and bright, and very cute.
Pictures are big, bold, and bright, and very cute.
September 3, 2021
Worth reading if your library has not yet culled it, but not worth seeking out. Note that another reviewer has found an excellent read-aloud on youtube.
January 11, 2022
Note: I received a digital review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
January 14, 2024
Reading "The Happy Owls" was like taking a delightful stroll through a whimsical forest of charm and life lessons. As someone who firmly believes that there's magic in children's books for readers of all ages, this retro gem was an absolute joy.
Let's talk about the stars of the show—those utterly endearing owls. Illustrated by Piatti in 1963, these feathery characters have an irresistible charm that transcends time. The delightful fusion of fun and retro illustrations makes every page a visual treat. It's not just a book; it's a time capsule of heartwarming aesthetics.
Now, onto the storyline—a classic fable about finding joy in life's simple wonders. The central question lingers: why are these owls so gosh-darn happy? That's the mystery that piques the curiosity of chickens, ducks, and geese alike. And as the adorable peacock sets out to unravel the secret, the answer is as heartwarming as it is profound. The happiness of these owls lies in appreciating the everyday miracles—the rain, sunshine, flowers, and butterflies. It's a gentle reminder that sometimes, joy is found in the simplest moments.
And here come my personal thoughts. "The Happy Owls" struck a chord with my inner child, reminding me that the magic of storytelling knows no age limit. As an adult who loves owls (who doesn't?), I found myself enchanted not just by the delightful narrative but also by Piatti's timeless illustrations. There's a certain nostalgia in the air, and it's not just for kids; it's for anyone who craves a dash of whimsy and a sprinkle of life wisdom.
So, my dear reader friends, whether you're an adult seeking a nostalgic trip down memory lane or a little one eager for a new bedtime favorite, "The Happy Owls" is a charming journey waiting to unfold.
Let's talk about the stars of the show—those utterly endearing owls. Illustrated by Piatti in 1963, these feathery characters have an irresistible charm that transcends time. The delightful fusion of fun and retro illustrations makes every page a visual treat. It's not just a book; it's a time capsule of heartwarming aesthetics.
Now, onto the storyline—a classic fable about finding joy in life's simple wonders. The central question lingers: why are these owls so gosh-darn happy? That's the mystery that piques the curiosity of chickens, ducks, and geese alike. And as the adorable peacock sets out to unravel the secret, the answer is as heartwarming as it is profound. The happiness of these owls lies in appreciating the everyday miracles—the rain, sunshine, flowers, and butterflies. It's a gentle reminder that sometimes, joy is found in the simplest moments.
And here come my personal thoughts. "The Happy Owls" struck a chord with my inner child, reminding me that the magic of storytelling knows no age limit. As an adult who loves owls (who doesn't?), I found myself enchanted not just by the delightful narrative but also by Piatti's timeless illustrations. There's a certain nostalgia in the air, and it's not just for kids; it's for anyone who craves a dash of whimsy and a sprinkle of life wisdom.
So, my dear reader friends, whether you're an adult seeking a nostalgic trip down memory lane or a little one eager for a new bedtime favorite, "The Happy Owls" is a charming journey waiting to unfold.
March 10, 2022
Thank you, NorthSouth Books, for re-releasing this exquisite picture book, THE HAPPY OWLS, by Celestino Piatti. I was immediately captivated by Piatti's stunning illustrations and intriguing opening lines. The owls' striking big round eyes are expressive and penetrating. The story's universal theme, the desire for happiness, is timeless and will appeal to both children and adults. THE HAPPY OWLS is a perfect choice for Storytime and classroom discussions about the importance of enjoying life's journey. I will be reading it at my next Storytime. Given today's world, the timing couldn't be better.
August 10, 2021
A group of farm birds is always fighting. One day they notice their peaceful owl neighbors and ask them to explain why they are so calm. The owls give an answer that kind of goes over the heads of the ducks and such, basically about enjoying the natural seasons and taking life as it comes to you. It probably goes a bit over the heads of most you readers as well as it’s not really a direct answer and kind of convoluted. I absolutely love the painting illustrations though and would frame them in my home.
January 8, 2022
The ever-quarreling birds of a farm want to know: what makes the owls so peaceful and happy? The answer the owls give is both simple and complex, and one that changes meaning with the seasons. The art in The Happy Owls is so beautiful, it's enough reason on its own to take a moment with this book!
March 13, 2022
Follows seasons and two owls who watch the other birds quarrel and live unhappily. The peacock is sent to ask the owls why they are happy. All the other birds hear their answer and why they are happy season to season. But when the owls tell them, the other birds are unimpressed by the owls' wisdom and continue their old ways.
January 23, 2019
I pulled this book with the hopes of using it for a preschool storytime. However, I felt that the story was a bit too slow for young children. It does contain a good message and would be of good use for one-on-one storytelling or with a lesson plan.
January 1, 2022
Disclaimer: I received this book for free in exchange of my honest opinion.
This was a very nice picture book - the art is definitely different, but I really appreciated that. The story is not as easy going, so a lot of discussions can be sparked with the little ones.
This was a very nice picture book - the art is definitely different, but I really appreciated that. The story is not as easy going, so a lot of discussions can be sparked with the little ones.
February 22, 2017
Motto for life: find happiness around you.
April 3, 2018
This is a cute story about two owls that are very happy and other animals want to be happy just like they are.
February 1, 2021
The barnyard fowls want to know why the owls are always happy.
2021 storytime theme: Happy
Reviewed from a library copy.
2021 storytime theme: Happy
Reviewed from a library copy.
November 10, 2021
It was cute.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews