Drawn Onward

Inside an idyllic hilltop cottage, beneath a portrait of two parents and a young child, a bearded adult and the child, a boy, sit alone and bereft: "She was gone." A page later, as the remaining caretaker struggles in the kitchen, the boy bolts in frustration ("He no longer believed... they would make it"). Outside, he snatches a sword and escapes into the woods, heading underground, slipping into a body of water, and emerging into worlds beyond. Within a snowy castle, he activates a glowing talisman that brings a stone image of his mother to life, at least long enough to answer a burning question. As the boy's quest progresses, the phrases of the text repeat in a mirrored narrative that initially reflects the boy's despair and, read in the reverse on the way home, conveys hope and resolve. Magnificently illuminated, video game-like spreads by Rockefeller (Poesy the Monster Slayer) feature stone ruins, menacing dragons, and ornaments that give the pages a book-of-hours feel. Printz Medalist Nayeri, meanwhile, distills an experience of grief, imparting the importance of seeking time alone to relive moments of shared love. Characters are portrayed with pale skin. Ages 4-8. Illustrator's agent: Joanna Volpe, New Leaf Literary & Media. (Oct.)

Copyright 2024 Publishers Weekly, LLC Used with permission.

Nayeri's text is sparse but heartrending, sparking large questions that drive readers forward and allowing Rockefeller ample space to construct an evocative fantasy world.

The illustrations are so filled with detail that they demand repeat visits, which will prompt little ones and their grown-ups to delve into the ellipses and explore both text and subtext further.

A gorgeous tale. A delightful puzzle. But most of all, Drawn Onward is a gift for those who believe books to be living things. — Aaron Becker, author of the Caldecott Honor Book Journey

A touching, poetic journey through grief, bravery and acceptance, so delectably illustrated I want to eat it with a spoon. — Vera Brosgol, author of the Caldecott Honor Book Leave Me Alone

It's rare to find a book this clever that is also emotionally powerful. Drawn Onward is special and enduring. — Matt de la Peña, author of Newbery winning Last Stop on Market Street

A touching triumph of artful collaboration between wordsmithing and world building. Nayeri's text is sparse but heartrending, sparking large questions that drive readers forward and allowing Rockefeller ample space to construct an evocative fantasy world. — Booklist (starred review)

A grieving young boy goes on an impossible adventure and returns, healed. The illustrations are so filled with detail that they demand repeat visits, which will prompt little ones and their grown-ups to delve into the ellipses and explore both text and subtext further. — Kirkus Reviews (starred review)