Kumo

“Dion’s vivid illustrations, inspired by Impressionist paintings, reflect the sky’s expressiveness… . Kumo will impart a new appreciation for clouds and show readers how it can sometimes be frightening to step into the world, then [reassure] them that others are willing to help when we overcome our bashfulness.” —STARRED REVIEW, Quill & Quire

“Nathalie Dion masterfully renders the journey of Kumo through the use of a rich palette of colours… . The reader revels at the richness of representation of the sky and clouds — sometimes reminiscent of Turner’s or Monet’s artwork — along with the exquisite depiction of landscapes and cityscapes.” —Elizabeth Mrazik-Cleaver Canadian Picture Book Jury/IBBY Canada

”[F]or young readers who may themselves feel anxious about finding their place and making friends … [a] quiet, satisfying tale about being brave enough to take that first step.” —Kirkus Reviews

“An excellent … read-aloud to help children understand their own reticence about being seen, this story also shows the many ways they can be present, as individuals or part of a group.” —School Library Journal

“Maclear writes a tale as light and lilting as its cloud hero… . Quiet, sweeping panoramas, often in sunrise colors, nurture the sense of calm that comes with broad perspectives and new connections… . [a] memorable story about coming into one’s own.” —Publishers Weekly


“After reading this book, young and old readers alike are sure to gain an even greater appreciation for clouds. Every time we look up at the sky, we’ll likely think of Kumo.” —Montreal Review of Books

“Kyo Maclear’s touching story about shyness shows how little Kumo changes her anxious feelings to confidence by being active and enjoying the beauty and friendships of the world around her. Maclear’s style of prose is almost poetic and adds a gentleness to the subject of bashfulness, which can be so difficult for young children.” —CM Reviews

“Learning a few Japanese words is a fun bonus in this beautifully illustrated book.” —Midwest Book Review

“Nathalie Dion’s ethereal illustrations bring the story of Kumo to life, fitting perfectly with Kyo Maclear’s lyrical parable about a shy little cloud exploring the world and making new friends along the way.” —Quebec Library Association

KYO MACLEAR is an award-winning novelist, essayist, and children’s author. Her books have been translated into eighteen languages and published in over twenty-five countries. She is the author of the hybrid memoir Birds Art Life (2017), winner of the Trillium Book Award. Kyo holds a doctorate in environmental humanities and is on faculty at the University of Guelph Creative Writing MFA.

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