100 books like The Capture

By Kathryn Lasky,

Here are 100 books that The Capture fans have personally recommended if you like The Capture. Shepherd is a community of 12,000+ authors and super readers sharing their favorite books with the world.

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Book cover of Eragon

M.B. Strang Author Of Arrow's Flight: A Knights of the Pearl Order Novel

From my list on fantasy dragons from someone who loves them.

Why am I passionate about this?

Ever since childhood, I have been enthralled by dragons. The stories of these mythical creatures can be told in so many ways, from dragons as pets to bonding with them or even shapeshifting into them. I chose these books because they are memorable, they have stuck with me, and they have fascinated and inspired me for years. All of these writers have influenced my own work, and they are sure to resonate with you, too.

M.B.'s book list on fantasy dragons from someone who loves them

M.B. Strang Why did M.B. love this book?

I loved the relationship between the boy and the dragon in this book. Although stories showing the bond between child and dragon are common, Paolini makes it new by sharing a depth of feeling between the two.

The development of that relationship and the world-building of the setting make for a fascinating read that kept my attention. This book was so captivating that I had to read the other two in the trilogy.

By Christopher Paolini,

Why should I read it?

12 authors picked Eragon as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 12, 13, 14, and 15.

What is this book about?

The first book in The Inheritance Series

When poor farm boy Eragon finds a polished stone in the forest, he thinks it's a lucky discovery. Perhaps, he will be able to buy his family food for the winter.

But, when a baby dragon hatches out of the stone, Eragon realises he's stumbled upon a legacy nearly as old as the Empire itself.

His simple life is shattered, and he's thrust into a perilous new world of destiny, magic and power. To navigate this dark terrain, and survive his cruel king's evil ways, he must take up the mantle of the…


Book cover of Redwall

Wayne Kramer Author Of Heroes of Time Legends: The Healer

From my list on unlikely heroes in magical worlds.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’ve loved creating and writing stories since childhood, and my ambitions started early. I started one of my largest and longest writing endeavors back in middle school—novelizing a popular video game called Chrono Trigger—and even into adulthood, it stretched into a serious effort. I used it to hone my writing craft for years, constantly bouncing feedback off others. Eventually, people started to tell me that the best parts of that story were the scenes I added to enhance it, and I finally decided that I wanted to pursue the creation of my own fantasy series. 

Wayne's book list on unlikely heroes in magical worlds

Wayne Kramer Why did Wayne love this book?

There’s a distinctive charm to this entire series, in which all of the characters are animals living in the peaceful Redwall Abbey and surrounding lands.

The various accents, often varied by animal species (mole, hare, squirrel, robin, badger, mouse, etc.), are a ton of fun. Friendships and the kindness of Redwallers are portrayed brilliantly, descriptions are vibrant, and villains are cunning.

Scenes are often opened with vibrant depictions, and food is frequently described with mouthwatering detail. Every single adventure makes you wish you were right there with the characters!

By Brian Jacques, Gary Chalk (illustrator),

Why should I read it?

7 authors picked Redwall as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 9, 10, and 11.

What is this book about?

The first book in the beloved, bestselling Redwall saga - soon to be a major Netflix movie!

Redwall Abbey, tranquil home to a community of peace-loving mice, is threatened by the evil, one-eyed rat warlord Cluny the Scourge and his battle-hardened horde of predators.

Cluny is certain that Redwall will fall easily to his fearsome army but he hasn't bargained for the courage and strength of the Redwall mice and their loyal woodland friends . . .

One of TIME magazine's 100 Best Fantasy Books of All Time

'Not since Roald Dahl have children filled their shelves so compulsively' -…


Book cover of Urchin of the Riding Stars

J.S. Allen Author Of Remnants of Light

From my list on YA fantasy series to start with.

Why am I passionate about this?

I have been an ardent fantasy reader since I was very young, and have been a writer for nearly as long. The idea of being able to weave together an original narrative that can be entertaining, educational, and instructive at the same time is a concept that has fascinated me well into adulthood, and one that I continue to explore in my reading and writing to this day, whether short form or long; fiction or non.

J.S.'s book list on YA fantasy series to start with

J.S. Allen Why did J.S. love this book?

I first discovered The Mistmantle Chronicles completely by accident, and a happy accident it was, as this 5-book series turned out to be my absolute favorite of all time!

As I said in a blog post a couple of years ago, this series has it all—heroic deeds, clever villains, and enough action and intrigue to satisfy readers of every stripe. And this very first book is an excellent starting point.

However many times I read it, it never ceases to thrill and immerse me in that beautifully crafted world populated by some amazingly 3-dimensional characters. And with its underlying Christian themes and symbolism, I would especially recommend the Mistmantle series for any Narnia lovers out there.

By M I McAllister, Christine Enright (illustrator),

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Urchin of the Riding Stars as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 8, 9, 10, and 11.

What is this book about?

On a night of riding stars, a tiny squirrel is found abandoned and close to death on a distant beach. Adopted and raised by a welcoming colony of animals, Urchin has no idea of his powerful destiny or of his mysterious origins.

The rule of the good King Brushen and Queen Spindle is threatened by an evil plot from within the court. When a murder is committed, the isle is thrown into turmoil. Behind the scenes, ruthless animals are determined to seize the throne. But to underestimate the power of the islanders and the ancient prophecies is a big mistake...…


Book cover of The Animals of Farthing Wood

J.S. Allen Author Of Remnants of Light

From my list on YA fantasy series to start with.

Why am I passionate about this?

I have been an ardent fantasy reader since I was very young, and have been a writer for nearly as long. The idea of being able to weave together an original narrative that can be entertaining, educational, and instructive at the same time is a concept that has fascinated me well into adulthood, and one that I continue to explore in my reading and writing to this day, whether short form or long; fiction or non.

J.S.'s book list on YA fantasy series to start with

J.S. Allen Why did J.S. love this book?

This is another series I found completely by accident, but was not disappointed. In this series, though they can speak and talk like humans, the animals truly are and live as animals.

While some may find this a bit slow compared to some of the more anthropomorphic stories out there, it is really a fascinating mixture of a survival tale combined with societal commentary regarding the age-old conflict of nature versus nurture, in this case asking whether a group of different animals—some carnivorous and some herbivorous—can cooperate long enough to reach the safety of a new home.

By Colin Dann,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Animals of Farthing Wood as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 7, 8, and 9.

What is this book about?

ANIMALS OF FARTHING WOOD: THE ADVENTURE BEGINS by Colin Dann is the exciting prequel to The Animals of Farthing Wood which takes the reader right back to the very beginning.

There had always been otters in the stream running through Farthing Wood - and that had never been a problem for the other animals before but when there is a shortage of fish in the stream, the otters are forced to hunt on land.The otters are taking valuable prey and the foxes and other Farthing Wood animals have to compete for food. Lean Vixen is determined to protect her family…


Book cover of Wesley the Owl: The Remarkable Love Story of an Owl and His Girl

Tove Danovich Author Of Under the Henfluence: Inside the World of Backyard Chickens and the People Who Love Them

From my list on animals helping us understand ourselves.

Why am I passionate about this?

I am a freelance journalist who started writing about animals after getting and falling in love with a flock of chickens. Animals are fascinating in their own right but the way we talk about them, and our relationships, shine a fascinating light on humans and what we value. My work has appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Guardian, Country Living, and many others. 

Tove's book list on animals helping us understand ourselves

Tove Danovich Why did Tove love this book?

Researchers don’t know much about barn owls so Stacey O’Brien, a biologist, and owl researcher, takes on the chance to raise one as a research assignment. Wesley quickly becomes so much more than that.

This memoir opens the door on owl intelligence and behavior while including unforgettable details like that baby barn owls smell “like maple syrup.” You’ll love the friendship between Wesley and his human.

A book that’s over far too quickly. 

By Stacey O'Brien,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Wesley the Owl as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

On Valentine’s Day 1985, biologist Stacey O’Brien adopted Wesley, a baby barn owl with an injured wing who could not have survived in the wild. Over the next nineteen years, O’Brien studied Wesley’s strange habits with both a tender heart and a scientist’s eye—and provided a mice-only diet that required her to buy the rodents in bulk (28,000 over the owl’s lifetime). She watched him turn from a helpless fluff ball into an avid com­municator with whom she developed a language all their own. Eventually he became a gorgeous, gold-and-white macho adult with a heart-shaped face who preened in the…


Book cover of Owly: The Way Home

Raea Gragg Author Of Mup

From my list on graphic novels for reluctant readers.

Why am I passionate about this?

Growing up, there was nothing I hated more than reading. Struggling with dyslexia and learning disabilities made books miserable and the distractions of screens didn’t help. However, everything changed when I discovered graphic novels and comics! That led to a newfound love of stories and books (especially graphic novels) which took me on a journey of not being able to read at age ten, to publishing my first novel at age fifteen. Since then, I’ve written and illustrated children’s books and young adult novels, but Mup is my first graphic novel. This has inspired me to create more graphic novels designed specifically for those who are just like me – reluctant readers.

Raea's book list on graphic novels for reluctant readers

Raea Gragg Why did Raea love this book?

A nearly wordless comic about a cute little owl who goes on adventures and meets new friends. Not only is Owly adorable – but it’s practically wordless. This series is perfect for an early reader who wants to start reading graphic novels on their own. Its non-intimidating approach makes it a great start for any reluctant reader. Plus, did I mention that Owly is super cute? 

By Andy Runton,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Owly as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 7, 8, 9, and 10.

What is this book about?

All Owly wants is a friend...

Owly is a good-natured little owl, and he's always helping those around him. But despite his kindness, he seems to frighten would-be friends away before they even give him a chance, just because he's an owl. That all changes, though, once Owly meets Wormy. Like Owly, Wormy is in need of a good friend, too -- someone who can be counted on for a helping hand, a good laugh, and a great adventure!Through a unique blend of words and symbols, Owly can be read by the youngest readers, and is a great introduction to…


Book cover of You Nest Here with Me

Maria Gianferrari Author Of Whoo-Ku Haiku: A Great Horned Owl Story

From my list on read aloud bird books for kids.

Why am I passionate about this?

I may not be an expert ornithologist, but I am an avid “birdologist” to borrow a term from Sy Montgomery—one who is awed and fascinated by all things bird. Bird-watching is meditative—it helps me to be present and to feel joyful. I love reading, learning, and writing about birds too! I am the author of these bird books: Hawk Rising, illustrated by Brian Floca, Whoo-Ku Haiku, illustrated by Jonathan Voss, and the forthcoming You and the Bowerbird, illustrated by Maris Wicks. I love writing about the natural world and its inhabitants as well as dogs—another love of mine!

Maria's book list on read aloud bird books for kids

Maria Gianferrari Why did Maria love this book?

Yolen and Stemple are a mother-daughter dream team duo and creators of many bird books including Yolen’s classic, Owl Moon. This birdy-lullaby has a soothing read-aloud rhythm as a mother tucks her tired nestling-child in bed. She recounts the places where various birds nest, from pigeons on ledges and catbirds in hedges, to owls in oak tree boles and hawks on telephone poles bound by the reassuring refrain, "You nest here with me.” Sweet’s blue-green color palette offers a calming and soporific counterpart and a nod to night-time. Learn more about the featured birds, their diet and nesting habits, and this birding family in the book’s back pages.

By Jane Yolen, Heidi E. Y. Stemple, Melissa Sweet (illustrator)

Why should I read it?

1 author picked You Nest Here with Me as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 4, 5, 6, and 7.

What is this book about?

Now available in a board book edition, this lyrical bedtime book is an ode to baby birds everywhere and to sleepy children, safe in their beds. As a mother describes how different species of birds nest, secure and cozy with their mama birds, she tucks her own child into bed with the soothing refrain -- "you nest here with me" -- easing her little one and readers alike to slumber. Accompanied by beautiful artwork by award-winning illustrator Melissa Sweet, mother and daughter Jane Yolen and Heidi Stemple have combined their poetry writing and love of birding in this board book…


Book cover of The Birders: An Unexpected Encounter in the Northwest Woods

Karen Lynn Williams Author Of Bear Helps the Forest (Maybe You Help, Too)

From my list on joyfully celebrate the magic in nature.

Why am I passionate about this?

My first memories are of sitting in the garden munching strawberries off the vine as my grandfather picked vegetables. Dad’s days off meant a trip to the nature reserve or sledding the town slopes. Vacations were for jumping in waves and exploring tidepools. Mom collected antique children’s books and instilled a passion for reading. When not exploring the woods across the railroad tracks with friends, I was reading. Childhood and my passion for nature intersect in my writing in two of my other books, A Beach Tail and Circles of Hope. Nowadays, my routine includes writing in my woodland cabin and daily hikes with my flat-coated retriever, Lowani.

Karen's book list on joyfully celebrate the magic in nature

Karen Lynn Williams Why did Karen love this book?

Birds are an important connection to nature for me. Like Mr. Flynn, I sometimes wonder if all my adventures are behind me. I remember thinking as a child, like Ollie McPhee, that nothing interesting ever happens. And I know the excitement of catching a glimpse of a bird I have not seen before. Or just hearing a new bird call. The silliness in text and illustrations is not usually my style, but I keep coming back to this book.

It is a fun escape into the natural world that incorporates how to keep a birding journal and information about the Snowy Owl, who is part of the plot. The end pages top off my love of this book with engaging illustrations identifying twenty birds and their habits.  

By Rob Albanese,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Birders as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 5, 6, 7, and 8.

What is this book about?

This humorous graphic novel picture book shares an unexpected friendship between a young boy and his elderly neighbor as they discover they have a lot to learn from each other.

As an elderly man wonders if his days of adventure are behind him, across the street a young boy is struggling with boredom. But then everything changes when they run into each other outside and, after a bit of commotion, get caught up in the pursuit to document an elusive snowy owl in the woods behind their houses.

As the day unfolds, they get to know each other better and…


Book cover of Owl Babies

Why am I passionate about this?

Lots of us rely occasionally on technology to help us entertain a young child, but the connection we form when looking at a book together cannot be beaten. I have found, both personally and professionally, that great books are born when a kind of magical mix-up is created in a child’s imagination between the words you read and the pictures they see. It feels so wonderful when this happens that they want to revisit the book again and again. I have written many books for young children over more than 20 years, and I am always striving to help cast that magical spell.

Fiona's book list on families and growing up–the funny bits, the comforting bits. . .and the scary bits

Fiona Munro Why did Fiona love this book?

At some point, every child is in a situation, maybe just for a few seconds, where they are not totally sure that their parent is coming back. I can still remember the look on my kids’ faces on their first day at nursery school! That feeling is no different for the young owl siblings in this story, left alone in the dark woods when their mother flies off in search of food. 

I love the simplicity of this tale, and the language is beautiful. We often turned to it at bedtime in our house, and no matter how many times I read, “Soft and silent, she swooped through the trees to Sarah and Percy and Bill,” it never got old.

By Martin Waddell, Patrick Benson (illustrator),

Why should I read it?

5 authors picked Owl Babies as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

A special 25th anniversary edition of a modern classic, Owl Babies reassures young children that Mummy will always come home.

"The perfect picture book" Guardian

A special 25th anniversary board book edition of a bestselling modern classic, Owl Babies is a comforting read for any toddler who has ever worried about mum leaving them alone, or any child starting pre-school for the very first time. Sarah, Percy and Bill the baby owls wake one night to find their mother gone. And as the darkness gathers and they perch patiently on their branch waiting for her return, oh how they worry!…


Book cover of Good-Night, Owl!

Caroline Pitcher Author Of The Winter Dragon

From my list on night-time, getting to sleep, and dragons.

Why am I passionate about this?

Picture books are so important. They’re for everyone, not just young children, and often the readers are adult. Writing one is similar to writing a poem while watching the story in my imagination like a film. Usually I know the illustrator and can write to their strengths. Sophy Williams has drawn The Winter Dragon as an awesome creature who's also kind and protective. When I was seven, my teacher sent my stories to Enid Blyton who replied I must not be spoiled (shame!) and wouldn’t write once I was an adult. After making Dragons with children, I watched them bring their creature alive in their play. The Winter Dragon enlarges Rory’s imaginative world.

Caroline's book list on night-time, getting to sleep, and dragons

Caroline Pitcher Why did Caroline love this book?

One of the best books about someone desperate to sleep is Good-night, Owl! written and illustrated by Pat Hutchins. This is short and jolly, excellent for very young children, and there is a board book format available. The clear bright pictures are like mosaics.

Poor Owl, who has to sleep in the daytime, is constantly disturbed by bees buzzing, woodpeckers pecking, doves cooing and squirrels cracking nuts. These are refreshingly local creatures, not exotic zoo inmates. It’s a rhythmic, cumulative text which I often read to the young children I taught. They loved to join in with the noises, and act the story. There’s a surprise ending. You’ll love to see Owl get his own back!

By Pat Hutchins,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Good-Night, Owl! as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 2, 3, 4, and 5.

What is this book about?

Owl can't get to sleep in Pat Hutchins's beloved Good-Night, Owl!

How is Owl supposed to sleep the day away with the bees buzzing, the woodpecker pecking, the doves cooing, and the squirrels crunching? But when night falls and everything is finally quiet, suddenly there's a new sound-and it's coming from Owl!

From author-illustrator Pat Hutchins, this cumulative bedtime story with a surprise ending will send little ones off to sleep with a smile.


Book cover of Eragon
Book cover of Redwall
Book cover of Urchin of the Riding Stars

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Interested in owls, brainwashing, and birds?

Owls 32 books
Brainwashing 14 books
Birds 178 books