How Wonderfully Odd!: A Backwards Bedtime Adventure of Kindness, Empathy, and Inclusion for Kids

Sweet little book with a darling message and cute pictures.

This is a cute story that my kids enjoy, with good animal facts, and models acceptance of others who are different from you.

"How Wonderfully Odd!," with text and illustrations by Rory Haltmaier, is the heartwarming story of nocturnal Obie Owl and Bitsy Bat who set out on an adventure to explore the world of diurnal animals. They meet a squirrel, frog, and badger who happily introduce them to alternative lifeways and activities. They return home after learning that what makes you special are your individual differences. This is a heartwarming story of finding self-acceptance, making new friends, sharing kindnesses, and valuing inclusion. The text is engaging and the watercolor illustrations are glorious. Intended for children age 1-8, the book also provides educational insights on diverse animals. The 35-page book is available as a hardcover ($18.99) and a paperback ($10.99); I recommend the hardcover as this story will be read repeatedly. Highly recommended.

This book was bought as a gift for family – but I had an opportunity to read it first before sending it to them. Glad I did! On the surface it’s a captivating light-hearted story. Beautifully illustrated, I embarked on an adventure alongside two unlikely but best friends. It had twists, turns, and importantly, a heart-warming ending. Along the way important life values are cleverly woven into the plot; in particular, that we should extend unconditional kindness to others and accept those who may at first seem different. Long story short, I was thrilled with the purchase and think you will be too!

I bought this for a 3 month old. He loves the illustrations that have big eyes and will listen and look the whole way through, excited for him to someday understand the message which is about accepting others and not judging someone just because they are different from us.

My kiddo and I love this book! It's a sweet story about friendship, curiosity, and diversity. It's insanely cute and its a solid length that holds my 6 year old's interest without dragging on

How Wonderfully Odd! is a lovely picture book, great for kids of all ages, but especially those who are learning about how to interact with new friends with kindness and empathy. Each page is such a treat to look at, and filled with a combo of animal facts and great examples of ways to speak to and help out others. Would be a great gift for the kiddos in your life, or as the premise for a lesson in a classroom. Can’t recommend enough

A psychologically astute children’s book that, like classic fairy tales and the best Pixar movies, works on several levels. A night owl myself, I found an immediate and surprising affinity with one of the protagonists. Unlike too many stories aimed at children, this does not rely on flimsy sentiment and a tidy over-explicated moral lesson. This young writer displays a deep-seated understanding of human nature as well as clever storytelling. A rare book that would get 5 stars from my niece and Bruno Bettelheim.

A longer story but it's worth it, according to my son. We liked the story. The bat and the owl make friends with daytime creatures who are different but friendly.

My son loved it. Good illustrations and lovely story. Great choice of words to challenge yet intrigue my 6 year old.