Flatland: The Story of Owuza Flatlander

K-Gr 2—Owuza arrives in Flatland as a simple circle, with vibrant, multicolored asymmetrical eyes, and develops a body as he grows, much as a fertilized egg evolves. With a lot to learn, he negotiates his way around, taking in the sights, sounds and smells of this new home floating in the universe. In getting to know the other inhabitants, he "soon forgot the time before he came to Flatland" and takes great pleasure in creating and building with new friends. At times, he wonders if there is anything beyond "here" but doesn't consider this possibility often, as he's happy with his life. One morning, his friends awaken to find that Owuza is nowhere to be found. Turning to one another for consolation, they understand that, though he's gone, he lives on in them and their lives have been enriched for knowing him. Emberley's distinctive luminous illustrations on black backgrounds depict Owuza growing and changing as he learns about his surroundings and shares his love. His abrupt departure may trouble some readers, while others may find comfort in knowing he came from somewhere else and has left this home for another place.—Maryann H. Owen, Children's Literature Specialist, Mt. Pleasant, WI