The clawlike nails almost change his mind. Danny's own fingers are remarkably well-manicured considering the weather around them, nails painted glossy black with silver glitter stripes on the third finger of each hand. When he does shake, though, his grip is strong.

In days to come, Danny will find his phobia of owls is gone. Why he thought they were so creepy, he can't quite recall.

He takes the book he was allowed to preview, then picks two others based on how interesting the titles look and clutches them to his chest. "Bet you say that to everyone," he tells Drulb archly. "What are the chances I'll see you around again?"