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Owl Diaries #6
Baxter is Missing: A Branches Book
Pick a book. Grow a Reader!This series is part of Scholastic's early chapter book line, Branches, aimed at newly independent readers. With easy-to-read text, high-interest content, fast-paced plots, and illustrations on every page, these books will boost reading confidence and stamina. Branches books help readers grow!In book 6, a famous author is coming to Treetopolis! Eva and her classmates each have to write a story to share with the author. Eva's excited! But then something terrible Her pet bat, Baxter, goes missing! Eva can't think of anything to write about -- except how much she misses Baxter! With help from her friends, Eva looks everywhere for Baxter. She even hangs up MISSING posters! Where could Baxter be? And will Eva finish her story in time for the author's visit?
88 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 25, 2017
270 people are currently reading
764 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca Elliott
200 books295 followersRebecca Elliott is the author and illustrator of the best-selling Owl Diaries series (Scholastic US) & over 20 picture books including Just Because, Sometimes, Naked Trevor and Zoo Girl, for which she was nominated for the 2012 Kate Greenaway Medal.
Her new series The Unicorn Diaries (Scholastic US) & her first YA novel 'Pretty Funny ' (Penguin Random House) are out now.
Her new series The Unicorn Diaries (Scholastic US) & her first YA novel 'Pretty Funny ' (Penguin Random House) are out now.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
June 4, 2022
Interesting and nice, though the series may be too draggy and forced at this point.
4.5/5 Interesting read
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4.5/5 Interesting read
---
SPECIAL MENTION: thank you moodreader for supporting my reviews from day 1 <33 really appreciate it
Like my post to be mentioned ;) (and get a shoutout if you follow my bookstagram, wattpad and pinterest
I am usually found here: https://beacons.ai/chevreads
Find me on:
Instagram: @chevreads
Wattpad: @writerthursday
Pinterest: @thursdayfrappe
Youtube: @chevreads
P.S. Add me as a friend :) I like to read romance novels and mystery stories
August 15, 2017
My daughter loves these early chapter books. They're very cute and easy for her to read. She liked the mystery in this one about what happened to Baxter, everyone working together, and that Eva learned she was wrong about the squirrels.
May 26, 2019
A series offered by Scholastic's Branches imprint of early chapter books. Lots of visual support for the text, making it perfect for emergent readers and children transitioning from picture books into chapter books. The diary format produces text in a conversational style, further enhanced through the abundant use of speech bubbles. The protagonist, Eva, is a likable, creative problem-solver who likes to involve and support her friends. Each volume contains comprehension questions at the back of the book.
In this sixth title of the series, Eva's beloved pet bat disappears from his perch in her bedroom. Eva organizes her friends to help her search for him. What they find challenges some of Eva's previously held assumptions.
In this sixth title of the series, Eva's beloved pet bat disappears from his perch in her bedroom. Eva organizes her friends to help her search for him. What they find challenges some of Eva's previously held assumptions.
March 29, 2020
Something about an owl having a pet bat annoys me, but getting past that, it's a cute story.
May 26, 2023
Hey there, fellow readers! Today, I want to tell you all about the super awesome book I just finished reviewing called Owl Diaries Baxter is Missing. It's actually the sixth book in this really, really, really cool series called Owl Diaries.
In this book, our main character Eva is super excited because she won all these signed books. But there's a little twist. She has to make up a story to win even more amazing prizes. The winner of the contest gets something really special. So, Eva is determined to come up with the best story ever!
But guess what happens? Baxter, Eva's friend, goes missing! Uh-oh! That's a big problem because they don't know where Baxter went. It's really, really worrying for Eva and her friends. They need to find Baxter before it's too late!
So, in this super cool park, they decide to act out scenes from famous books to help them come up with their own story. They pretend to be characters from books like Star Wings (instead of Star Wars), Harry Hooter and the Nest of Secrets (instead of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets), and even Peter Wingspan and Captain Hook (like in Peter Pan). It sounds like so much fun!
But while they are acting out these scenes, they still can't find Baxter. Eva is getting more and more worried. What happened to her dear friend? Will they ever find him?
Finally, after a lot of searching, Eva discovers that Baxter is actually helping a little squirrel. Can you believe it? The squirrel was stealing a poster that Eva put up, and Baxter was just trying to make a nest for the squirrel's babies. Isn't that sweet?
The message of this book is really important. It teaches us that before helping someone, it's always a good idea to tell your parents or someone you trust. They might be worried about you if they don't know where you are. At the very least, you can leave a note or something. Even though Baxter doesn't know how to write, he could have left a wing note or something, right?
I absolutely loved this book, and I encourage you to read it too! It's a wonderful story about friendship, helping others, and being brave. Plus, it's full of cute and colorful illustrations that make the book even more enjoyable. So go ahead and give it a try. You won't be disappointed!
If you're as excited about this book as I am, be sure to click the link to purchase your own copy. It's a great way to support the author and dive into an amazing story.
https://amzn.to/43XyBDY
I posted my full review of this book on my YouTube channel. It's a must-watch for anyone interested in this topic!
https://youtu.be/jU7pXOOU8Jw
In this book, our main character Eva is super excited because she won all these signed books. But there's a little twist. She has to make up a story to win even more amazing prizes. The winner of the contest gets something really special. So, Eva is determined to come up with the best story ever!
But guess what happens? Baxter, Eva's friend, goes missing! Uh-oh! That's a big problem because they don't know where Baxter went. It's really, really worrying for Eva and her friends. They need to find Baxter before it's too late!
So, in this super cool park, they decide to act out scenes from famous books to help them come up with their own story. They pretend to be characters from books like Star Wings (instead of Star Wars), Harry Hooter and the Nest of Secrets (instead of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets), and even Peter Wingspan and Captain Hook (like in Peter Pan). It sounds like so much fun!
But while they are acting out these scenes, they still can't find Baxter. Eva is getting more and more worried. What happened to her dear friend? Will they ever find him?
Finally, after a lot of searching, Eva discovers that Baxter is actually helping a little squirrel. Can you believe it? The squirrel was stealing a poster that Eva put up, and Baxter was just trying to make a nest for the squirrel's babies. Isn't that sweet?
The message of this book is really important. It teaches us that before helping someone, it's always a good idea to tell your parents or someone you trust. They might be worried about you if they don't know where you are. At the very least, you can leave a note or something. Even though Baxter doesn't know how to write, he could have left a wing note or something, right?
I absolutely loved this book, and I encourage you to read it too! It's a wonderful story about friendship, helping others, and being brave. Plus, it's full of cute and colorful illustrations that make the book even more enjoyable. So go ahead and give it a try. You won't be disappointed!
If you're as excited about this book as I am, be sure to click the link to purchase your own copy. It's a great way to support the author and dive into an amazing story.
https://amzn.to/43XyBDY
I posted my full review of this book on my YouTube channel. It's a must-watch for anyone interested in this topic!
https://youtu.be/jU7pXOOU8Jw
January 20, 2025
This is a cute story mostly about overcoming prejudice through the very strange antagonism between owls/bats and... squirrels.
I mean, Eva SAYS IN THE BOOK that she sleeps during the day, is awake at night. Squirrels are LITERALLY THE OPPOSITE: they take cover by dark and do not come back out until they can see again, because it otherwise tends to mean predators (like owls!) will get them. So the idea of them being enemies, that her pet bat chases them *at all* is weird.
But, fiction! Anything goes if you believe it does! (Terry Brooks had a whole chapter about this in Sometimes the Magic Works, in fact.) So, okay, squirrels are bloodthirsty beasts, sure.
Naturally, the story doesn't end in this gruesome war between owls and bats vs. squirrels, because it isn't that target audience. Instead, Eva overcomes her negative prejudices and finds out the truth behind her missing pet in a heartwarming ending (that doesn't really make sense, since a squirrel would have had an easier time doing what Baxter did, but I guess we wouldn't have a story otherwise).
Recommended for young fans of owls!
I mean, Eva SAYS IN THE BOOK that she sleeps during the day, is awake at night. Squirrels are LITERALLY THE OPPOSITE: they take cover by dark and do not come back out until they can see again, because it otherwise tends to mean predators (like owls!) will get them. So the idea of them being enemies, that her pet bat chases them *at all* is weird.
But, fiction! Anything goes if you believe it does! (Terry Brooks had a whole chapter about this in Sometimes the Magic Works, in fact.) So, okay, squirrels are bloodthirsty beasts, sure.
Naturally, the story doesn't end in this gruesome war between owls and bats vs. squirrels, because it isn't that target audience. Instead, Eva overcomes her negative prejudices and finds out the truth behind her missing pet in a heartwarming ending (that doesn't really make sense, since a squirrel would have had an easier time doing what Baxter did, but I guess we wouldn't have a story otherwise).
Recommended for young fans of owls!
September 20, 2017
{My thoughts} – In this book Eva goes to bed after leaving her bedroom window open. When she wakes up her pet bat is missing. He apparently flew out the window after she’d went to sleep.
At school they are suppose to write a story and then submitting it for a contest. Eva can’t concentrate on anything but her missing pet. All her classmates band together and help her look for him. The look everywhere, while still working on their stories.
Eventually they find him and rescue him. Eva is so happy to have him back that she’s finally able to work on and complete her story. The next night at school they all read their stories for the contest.
I really enjoy these books. They have colorful illustrations, simple stories and nice little lessons within the pages. I also like how at the end of each book their are discussion questions that can be used to further discuss the readers understanding of the book.
At school they are suppose to write a story and then submitting it for a contest. Eva can’t concentrate on anything but her missing pet. All her classmates band together and help her look for him. The look everywhere, while still working on their stories.
Eventually they find him and rescue him. Eva is so happy to have him back that she’s finally able to work on and complete her story. The next night at school they all read their stories for the contest.
I really enjoy these books. They have colorful illustrations, simple stories and nice little lessons within the pages. I also like how at the end of each book their are discussion questions that can be used to further discuss the readers understanding of the book.
May 9, 2019
This book brings the realness! While the main plot is worrying about Eva's pet going missing, the main message is not to judge an entire group based off of individuals within that group. I thought it was really intense but it is done in a way that will still appeal to younger readers. It's clever and I liked experiencing it unfold, especially seeing the range of other characters' impressions and how they try to share their POV with Eva. Nicely done.
For: fans of owls; readers wanting a diary format and fun illustrations; readers looking for a book that combats prejudice.
Possible red flags: prejudice/racism (shown against a specific species); angst; missing pet.
For: fans of owls; readers wanting a diary format and fun illustrations; readers looking for a book that combats prejudice.
Possible red flags: prejudice/racism (shown against a specific species); angst; missing pet.
December 16, 2021
Eva's pet bat Baxter goes missing one morning. Eva goes to sleep with Baxter on his stick, but she opens her window because it was so hot in her room, and Baxter flies out. So in the morning when Eva woke up, she started to cry because she didn't know where Baxter was. Her parents assured her Baxter would come back. Her classmates at school help try to get him back by making t-shirts and posters. Baxter got stuck in a squirrel hole trying to save a baby squirrel. All of the owls find Baxter in the hole and Eva gets them out. She knows Baxter's favorite trick is jump through the hoop. The next day, Eva threw a thank you party for her friends.
October 16, 2017
I bought this book as a back to school gift for my 6 year old niece. She already had books #1-5 in this series and didn't know this one had already been published, so she was overjoyed to get it. Before I gave it to her, I had to read it myself. I can see why she loves these books so much. The author is so creative and the illustrations are beautiful. I can see why my niece enjoys these books so much. I just ordered book #7 for her, which will be released October 31, 2107.
March 9, 2020
In this book, Eva loses her pet bat, Baxter. It's a good story. Like the other books I have read in the Owl Diaries series, there's a lot of wordplay with the word Owl and hoot etc... Rebecca Elliott, the author, makes a guest appearance as an Owl author - only she is called Rebecca Owliott. ;)
My niece loves these Owl Diary chapter books.
They are easy to read for kids who are starting to read chapter books.
My niece loves these Owl Diary chapter books.
They are easy to read for kids who are starting to read chapter books.
July 10, 2020
Baxter went missing and Eva was very worried. Her and Lucy made posters to find Baxter but no one had seen Baxter. The squirrels took down the posters. Then Lucy has a thought she siad that Baxter likes to chase squirrels. So they looked everywhere and then they found a squirrel pulling something up from a whole in a tree isn’t was Baxter. So Eva helped the squirrel and Eva Said to Baxter I will never let the window stay open again.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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January 8, 2021En este libro, Eva aprendió sobre juzgando. Le pareció a ella que ardillas secuestraron su mascoto, un murciélago se llama Gastón. Gastón desapareció una noche cuando Eva dejó la ventana abierta. Ella culpó a las ardillas por que ella creó que ellos huelen mal y roban comida. Pero, en realidad, Gastón no volvió a casa por que él estaba cuidando de un bebé ardilla que estaba atrapado en un hoyo. Gastón era un héroe para los ardillas. Eva aprendió que es mal juzgar.
June 23, 2017
Rebecca Elliott does it again! What a great book in the Owl Diaries series. When Eva's pet bat Baxter goes missing all the owls join in to find him. Eva is convinced the mean squirrels are behind it all. I love how Rebecca Elliott concludes the book, teaching readers and Eva that you shouldn't judge (people) animals too harshly. Thumbs up!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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February 23, 2022When Eva was cuddling with baxter, her pet bat, she opened the window but she left the room, he flew out the window. When she lost him, she made a whole bunch change of posters and she looked everywhere for him. She put together a club for finding Baxter. The club helped and they found him in a hole, holding a baby squirrel!
I loved it so much, it was so good.
I loved it so much, it was so good.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 23, 2022
Miss 7 loves reading about Eva. She liked the list of different story ideas for each of the class.
Miss 7 and I like to explore different books and authors at the library, sometimes around particular topics or themes. We try to get different ones out every week or so; it's fun for both of us to have the variety and to look at a mix of new & favourite authors.
Miss 7 and I like to explore different books and authors at the library, sometimes around particular topics or themes. We try to get different ones out every week or so; it's fun for both of us to have the variety and to look at a mix of new & favourite authors.
July 8, 2017
I, just like my children and students, LOVE this series! This is the most recent story in the series and they are all great and big hits in the library. I enjoy the illustrations and stories very much.
August 6, 2017
Another super cute book about caring for each other and working together. Eva's pet bat Baxter is missing after Eva leaves the window open while she is sleeping. Never fear, all is resolved by the end of the book.
January 10, 2018
Liked this one more than previous ones. The character traits displayed by the MC and her buddies are much improved, though she still learns a lesson, (about giving people - er, I mean animals - the benefit of the doubt).
Points for a good sub-plot. It tied in nicely.
Points for a good sub-plot. It tied in nicely.
June 19, 2018
Amazing Baxter is missing is great
I liked the mystery in it and how opinions change over time. I did not like how Sue is mean in other books and in this book Sue is super nice. I need a explanation! That is why I gave this book four stars.
I liked the mystery in it and how opinions change over time. I did not like how Sue is mean in other books and in this book Sue is super nice. I need a explanation! That is why I gave this book four stars.
August 8, 2020
This is a really cute children's book. The main character is Eva Wingdale and she has a pet bat named Baxter that has been helping the squirrels babysit. Eva doesn't know where Baxter is and the book is mainly her search for Baxter while those "nasty squirrels" are trying to sabatage her efforts.
June 20, 2021
Eva is trying to come up with story ideas for a writing contest when a famous author comes to visit. Meanwhile, her beloved pet bat, Baxter, goes missing! Eva can’t think of anything except how much she misses Baxter. Will she find him?
A little bit of mystery, lots of owl puns, cute pictures, and a diary format, this series is nice for reading aloud to my young kiddos!
A little bit of mystery, lots of owl puns, cute pictures, and a diary format, this series is nice for reading aloud to my young kiddos!
January 10, 2023
Eva accidentally opened the window because she was hot. But at morning, she noticed that her pet, Baxter is missing! Her friend and her made a club called Baxter Bunch. They started finding clues. But, Baxter is nowhere to be seen!!!
September 14, 2024
Another good installment of the Owl Diaries series. Eva has a pet bat, Baxter. One day she leaves her window open, and Baxter flies away. All of her classmates join the search, but the squirrels keep stealing the "lost" signs. Good art as usual.
May 30, 2017
When in doubt, start a club! =)
May 31, 2017
I know many 1st-3rd graders who love this series! Would be a fun one to remember when working on the writing process, or preparing for a Young Author's program.
June 3, 2017
Eva's friends help to find Eva's pet bat, Baxter.
June 12, 2017
I love these books!
June 13, 2017
I read this book. Great book for emergent readers. Reads like a cartoon.
There are several books in this series. I just happened to read book 6. You do not have to read them in order.
There are several books in this series. I just happened to read book 6. You do not have to read them in order.
July 25, 2017
Baxter is missing! What happened to him? Did the smelly squirrels have something to do with it?
Love the owl diaries!
Love the owl diaries!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews