drawn together

Drawn Together is a tremendous story about the generational, cultural and communication gap between a boy and his grandfather, and the shared love of art and storytelling that one day bridges the profound chasm between the two.  The story’s words and art are richly nuanced and layered and there’s a lot to feel and process with this one, especially if you can relate with your own family relationships.  Even if that’s not the case, it’ll still be a beautiful, moving and deeply impactful read.

From author Minh Lê on what inspired Drawn Together:

“Drawn Together was inspired by the relationship with my grandparents, but especially my paternal grandfather. There was always a language gap between us — my Vietnamese unfortunately peaked when I was about 5 — so I often felt that our relationship was defined by all the things that we couldn't say to each other.  In talking to Dan, he actually had a similar relationship with his grandmother, so he was coming from a similar place. This book is about the desire to find common ground with someone despite the things that may initially separate you, whether that's a language gap, a generational divide, or cultural differences. In this case, when the grandfather and grandson discover a mutual love of art, they ‘see each other for the first time’ and can finally bridge the divide that had been separating them. It's been very heartwarming to share this story and very humbling to then have people share their own stories about their relationships with their loved ones. I hope that this book resonates with readers and maybe even inspires a few to find new connections with the important people in their lives. Happy reading!”

Drawn Together was written by Minh Lê, illustrated by Dan Santat and published by Disney-Hyperion.  It’ll be out on June 5.

boats are busy

Sara Gillingham delves into the world of boats in her latest board book, Boats Are Busy.  It’s a nautical primer that teaches little ones about 15 different maritime vessels such as the tugboat, cargo ship, aircraft carrier, rescue boat, clipper and research vessel.  Her palette of primary colors and modern aesthetic make this one a delight — and one that you won’t mind re-reading at bedtime.  Plus the flags in the book bear a secret decodable message.  We have a feeling this one will be a stowaway on many summer trips.

Boats Are Busy was written and illustrated by Sara Gillingham and published by Phaidon.  It’ll be out soon on May 25.

bear and wolf

A sweet, gentle story celebrating new friendship and reveling in the glories of winter and its glistening white snow.  Thoughtfully written and illustrated with a serene softness and varying perspectives, Bear and Wolf will make quite impact on readers in its own thoughtful, quiet way.

Bear and Wolf was written and illustrated by Daniel Salmieri and published by Enchanted Lion.

this bridge will not be gray

“The Golden Gate Bridge, which is orange, is the best known and best loved bridge in the world.  It is best known because it is bold and courageous and unusual and even strange.  It is best loved because it is bold and courageous and unusual and even strange.”

This Bridge Will Not Be Gray is Dave Eggers’ and Tucker Nichols’ unique, funny and insightful take on the history of one the most iconic landmarks in our country, “both a bridge and something like art” — the Golden Gate Bridge.  Pictured is the revised edition recently published in March with updated back matter.

I have fond memories of driving over the bridge to and from an internship in Marin County my last semester of grad school.  Often it would be shrouded in SF’s infamous gray fog, other rare times set against a sunny, crisp blue sky.  But always a majestic sight and memorable drive.

Also, Dave Eggers is taking questions from readers!  If there’s anything that you ever wanted to ask him about any of his  books, his work with 826, McSweeney’s, or writing in general, head over to THE LIFTERS post on @averyandaugustine, and leave your question for him there.  He’ll be picking some questions and sharing those answers soon on @the_lifters_by_dave_eggers.

whale in a fishbowl

Wednesday is a big blue whale who lives in a fishbowl in the middle of a bustling city.  When I first heard that this was the premise of the story, that’s all I needed to read and I was sold on it.  But to then take a closer look and realize that the art was by one of my new favorites—Richard Jones—that was what sent it over the top for me.  One day Wednesday meets a little girl named Piper who makes her question her glass home.  It’s a quiet, beautiful and sympathetic story for dreamers or for anyone who feels like they don’t quite belong.

Whale in a Fishbowl was written by Troy Howell, illustrated by Richard Jones and published by Schwartz & Wade Books.  It’ll be out on 5/22.