The Balcony

By: Melissa Castrillon

It should come as no surprise by now that I am obsessed with Melissa Castrillon’s illustrations. My children are, too. They love her curls and sweeping lines. Her work feels both dreamlike and whimsical, and I love whimsy.

“The Balcony” is a story told through (mostly) illustrations, and it is beautiful. Moving is always hard on children, and in “The Balcony” we see a little girl cope with that change through her garden. As she nourishes her balcony garden something magical begins to happen – joy begins to spread. The people around her are impacted in a wonderful way, and the community comes together.

Castrillon’s illustrations are rich and thorough. I often find myself flipping through pages over and over again, finding new details, new sketch marks, new beauty.

“The Balcony” is about new beginnings, hope, and love, and it’s a beautiful addition to any library. What’s your favorite wordless book?

Mary Anning’s Curiousity

By: Monica Kulling

Illustrations by: Melissa Castrillon

Feeling just a bit under the weather, so tea and this lovely little novella. I checked it purely because Melissa Castrillon’s name was attached.

Monica Kulling weaves together a story that manages to be heartbreaking, uplifting, and fascinating all in 104 pages. Her very detailed author’s note was also greatly appreciated. I loved hearing about Mary and her curiosity after the tale ended.

For those who don’t know, Mary Anning is considered one of the greatest fossilists, and her story is one that demonstrates just how powerful determination, love of family, and one’s passion can truly be. And if you don’t know what an Ichthyosaurus is, you will. 😊

If I Had a Little Dream

Written by: Nina Laden

Illustrated by: Melissa Castrillon

I’m not going to lie – I checked this book out because the cover is absolutely stunning. “If I Had a Little Dream” is Castrillon’s picture book debut, and her work is phenomenal. The pages are filled with intricate designs, vines weaving this way and that, with sweet pictures that convey the wonder and awe of the main character.

“If I Had a Little Dream” reads like a poem, and follows a little girl through the day with all of her “If I had a little…” moments. My favorite part is:

“If I had a little book,

I would name it Friend.

Friend would go wherever I went,

our story would never end.”

Laden did a lovely job with this precious book, although I must admit I enjoyed it more than my children; while I was reveling in the sweetness of the message the boys were entranced with the illustrations. This is another book that’s really more for mom than the kids, but a truly beautiful addition to your library.