“It’s rare to find a book so thought-provoking and haunting that also feels like it’s welcoming the reader with a warm hug.” —The New York Times
“Soft lines and simple character designs by Guojing (The Only Child) emphasize JieJie and DiDi’s youthful vulnerability and optimism amid a somber landscape devastated by pollution and climate change. The delicate pencil shading evokes a powerful sense of tone and atmosphere, while large uncluttered panels inject a feeling of intimacy even in the vast desert. It’s an evocative and moving graphic novel tale of sacrifice and what it means to be a family.”–Publisher’s Weekly, starred review
“A thought-provoking, affecting allegory that reflects difficult realities yet is filled with love.” —Kirkus, starred review
“Subtle monochrome art in brilliantly paced, spare panels underscores the emotional depth of this compelling narrative. . .Perfectly blending story and art, this deeply compelling fable assures middle-grade readers that, with resilience, adaptability, and the hope for connection, love can prevail even amid desolation.” —Booklist, starred review
“The graphic novel format is expertly used here to build narrative movement through both text and illustrations, and panel size and shifts in perspective highlight key moments. . .While hope hovers at the edges of the story, the primary focus is love, turning inward toward it and nurturing it when the larger world feels impossibly grim.”–BCCB, starred review
“Isabel opened the doors that led to my work being published. Throughout, she has offered honest opinions and patient coaching – all without ever losing the courtesy, gentility and decency that makes her a pleasure to know. I owe her deeply!”
Nick Soulsby, Creative Authors Client
