My absolute, by far, unquestionably favorite book of last year was the gorgeous and moving BOATS FOR PAPA by Jessixa Bagley.
It touched me. It moved me. It made me question, laughingly, why I think I could/should even be in this business. It had a lot of Caldecott buzz, deservedly. If you have not had the opportunity to fall into this book—because you will fall into it—get thee to your local independent and take it in now! And bring kleenex. And money, because you are going to want to own this book.
Bagley’s sophomore effort, BEFORE I LEAVE, may not cause the same welling up that BOATS FOR PAPA caused, but it will still move you, and it never hurts to keep some tissues nearby, you know, just in case.
The title suggests loss of a kind we don’t want to think about. In fact, the original title was even more portending: I think it was called, WHEN I GO or WHEN I’M GONE or something along that line. (Jessixa told us at her local book launch but I didn’t write it down.) But it is not a story of loss. It is a story about two very good friends, a giant anteater, Aaron, and a hedgehog, Zelda.
When Zelda finds out her family is moving away, and Aaron can’t come with her, she suggests they play until moving day.
And they do. They are joyous despite their looming separation.
After she moves, Zelda is uncertain and sad. Until she unpacks and finds out just what a good friend Aaron is.
Bagley’s illustrations are beautiful. Using ink and watercolor, and switching between vignettes and full spreads, she creates a world that is tranquil and inviting. I want to be there.
And she creates two wonderfully endearing characters that you just want to squeeze. They are expressive and their fondness for each other is obvious.
As a bonus, the endpapers are a treat. The illustrations on the front endpapers of Aaron and Zelda playing at things are duplicated on the back endpapers as if drawn by one of the two friends.
I still think the title may be a little misleading. But that may be just me. After reading the book, it is clear that the title is a precursor to to the suggestion of unfettered frolicking while you can.
I’ve mentioned before that I am a complete sucker for books about good friends, and this one is smack dab on top of that pile.
I’m on my way. To get these books, I mean!!!
I can’t wait to read this new one! I loved Boats for Papa!
I need both of these books. Thanks for sharing!
I must read both of these!
Boats for Papa shares a special place on my desk. I can see Before I Leave will too. I love endpapers that share the story in this special way. Thanks for sharing, Kevan. (I’m that sucker too.) 😉
A lovely picture book!
That Zelda! I’ve been following Jessixa on Instagram where she’s been posting different pictures of her, and they’re all adorable!
I’m with you, Kevan–I LOVED Boats for Papa–it made me weep! I loved it! I’m so looking forward to Before I Leave!
And of course, PUDDLES!!!!! 🙂 <3
Aren’t they great?? (the little Zeldas!)
These are beautiful books on so many levels.
Sounds absolutely lovely. Can’t wait to read it!
I’ve been trying to get Boats for Papa from my library, but they don’t have it yet. But now I’m thinking I’ll take your advice and head to the bookstore for both! And have a serious talk with my librarian. 🙂
You let her know what she is missing! And she should have multiple copies!
Loved Jessixa’s first–can’t wait to read this one too!
Thank you, Kevan. I can’t wait to fall in love with these books!
I always find it fascinating to hear what books other illustrators love. Thanks for this, Kevan! Sounds like Jessixa has a big heart.
She and her family are adorable!
I really want to read this one. I LOVED Boats for Papa. I suspect I will like this one as well. Thanks for telling me about it.
I haven’t read Boats for Papa yet. I’ll get them both and the box of kleenex. Thank you, Jill.
I LOVED “Boats for Papa,” and I’m heading to the library today to pick up “Before I Leave.” Thanks.
I finally found Boats for Papa & pick it up on Monday; adding Before I Leave to my must get list now. And Kleenex – just in case…
Oh I’m anxious to see her new one! Thanks, Kevan!!!!