Buckley and his mama live in a cozy cabin by the ocean. He loves to carve boats out of the driftwood he finds on the beach nearby. He makes big boats, long boats, short boats, and tall boats, each one more beautiful than the last, and sends them out to sea. If they don’t come back, he knows they’ve found their way to his papa, whom he misses very much.
Jessixa Bagley’s debut picture book is a tender story about love, loss, and the importance of moving on.
★ “Heartbreaking and hopeful, innocent and wise, a gentle story about healing and finding connection-both in the past and present.” —Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
★ “The pacing is exquisite as Buckley absorbs and reacts to this information, recognizing and expressing love in return. These two will persevere in the tender journey of life. Reassuring, consoling, and lovely.” —Booklist (starred review)
★ “The only thing better than this title for anyone who has experienced loss is the redemptive nature of time.” —School Library Journal (starred review)
★ “A deeply empathic story with an accomplished sense of place. In beautiful tones of blue and brown, she immerses readers in the coastal world where Buckley and his mother are trying to make sense of their lives.” —Publishers Weekly (starred review)
A Junior Library Guild Selection
Washington State Book Award
SCBWI Golden Kite Award
ALA Notable