Bestselling author coming to library for book signing

On Tuesday, Oct. 20, the Ramona Branch Library and the Friends of the Ramona Library will present a book talk and signing with New York Times bestselling author Stacey O’Brien.

O’Brien wrote Wesley the Owl, the Remarkable Story of an Owl and His Girl.

Skyhunters, the Lakeside Raptor Refuge, will bring live owls for public display during the event. This unique program is in celebration of Teen Read Week and is open to all members of the public.

Wesley the Owl is a love story that begins when a young, compassionate biologist adopts a baby bird—and unknowingly embarks on a relationship that will last almost two decades. O’Brien’s book is about the biologist and barn owl expert, her rescue of an adorable, abandoned baby barn owl—and their 19-year life together.

With affection and a scientist’s eye, O’Brien will narrate Wesley’s growth from a helpless ball of fuzz to a playful and clumsy adolescent—and finally to a macho adult owl who admires himself in the mirror, eats up to six mice a day, and objects to any other male—animal or human—invading “his” territory.

Along the way, Wesley’s caretaker makes important discoveries about barn owl behavior, intelligence, communication skills and emotions.

Ultimately, the biologist who saved the life of a helpless baby bird is herself rescued by the insistent love and protective strength of this wild animal. O’Brien’s anecdotes are enhanced by wonderful photos of their life together.

By turns playful and informative, Wesley the Owl is a surprising story of a complex non-human being capable of reason, communication, love and loyalty. It is sure to be cherished by animal lovers everywhere.

O’Brien is a biologist, wildlife rescuer and animal rehabilitation expert specializing in owl research.

Ramona Library is at 1406 Montecito Road. Parking is available in the lot off 16th Street.

For more information, please contact Ellie Slade, Ramona Library branch manager, at 760-738-2434 or see www.wesleytheowl.com/.