Owls in the Family

Farley Mowat is one of Canada's most popular authors, and with over 40 books published, he remains one of the country’s most prolific. His deep knowledge of the Canadian wilderness resonates throughout the narration of Owls in the Family; in fact, the story is set in the author’s hometown of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. While living in Saskatoon, Mowat wrote about birds for the local newspaper in addition to running his own nature-inspired newsletter. He later went on to study zoology, although he never graduated with a degree. Prior to his literary career, he also participated in many field studies throughout Canada. Mowat’s rich knowledge of both animals and the Canadian outdoors lends his novel an air of innate authority that establishes Billy as a reliable narrator. When Billy makes observations about his surroundings, particularly about the animals, it is clear that these observations are based on Mowat’s own personal experiences and knowledge. Mowat’s use of figurative language reflects his deep appreciation for and knowledge of the nuances of the Canadian landscape. In fact, in his closing commentary, Mowat writes, “Were Wol and Weeps real owls? Of course they were! And Mutt and Rex and Murray and