About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is feeling overwhelmed by a big move or struggling with the fear of being separated from loved ones. It is an especially powerful tool for children who feel their voice is not being heard or who are navigating a world where they do not yet speak the language. Through the unique lens of a silent film, the story follows Gustave and his family as they arrive in New York City and become accidentally separated in the chaos of the docks. This beautifully composed chapter book uses black and white illustrations and title cards to evoke the resilience of the immigrant experience. It captures the loneliness of a new city while maintaining a hopeful, cinematic rhythm. While it touches on the hardships of poverty and separation, the focus remains on Gustave's ingenuity and the ultimate joy of family reunification. It is a gentle way to discuss history, perseverance, and the many ways we can communicate without words.
