This Is a Story

Praise

An homage to book and library lovers everywhere, Schu and Castillo’s book takes readers on a journey that shows how words can lead to human connections. . . . Castillo uses ink, watercolor, and pastel to create a beautiful and vibrant library setting that invites everyone into the spreads. Those in the know will have fun spying illustrated covers of actual picture books. . . . A valentine to reading, books, the love of books, and the rooms that house them, this charmer will find a home in every heart.
—School Library Journal (starred review)

Starting in close and pulling back, this love letter to libraries foregrounds their gift for connecting each reader with just the right story. . . . Realistically drawn, recognizable book jackets cover the pages, creating jumping-off points and sparks of recognition in a title that’s both the next best thing to an actual library visit and fine preparation for a first foray.
—Publishers Weekly

The soft illustrations, created with ink, watercolor, and pastel, suit the gentle narrative. . . [a] sweet tribute to a book’s ability to create deep, lasting connections with readers.
—Kirkus Reviews

In his follow up to This Is a School, Schu presents This Is a Story—a delightful homage to the power of story, particularly those moments when that certain book lands in the hands of that certain child, when those sparks of connection lead to that sense of wonder and a desire to know more. . . As a classroom teacher, a school librarian, and the Ambassador of School Libraries for Scholastic Book Fair, Schu knows the importance of this book-reader connection. . . . Using ink, watercolor, and pastel, Caldecott Honor-recipient Lauren Castillo creates a soft, warm feeling with each illustration. . . choosing a city public library tucked in the middle of a diverse neighborhood is the perfect setting to tell this story, a story relatable to all kids.
—The New York Journal of Books