About This Book
A parent would reach for this book when their child shows a deep, perhaps unconventional passion for art or expresses a desire for more independence. It is a quiet, contemplative story about a young boy who teams up with a seasoned sign painter to work on billboards across a dusty, mid-century desert landscape. This is not a typical adventure: it is a thoughtful exploration of finding one's path, the dignity of work, and the spark of creativity that lives even in commercial tasks. The book is perfect for children ages 7 to 12 who are beginning to wonder what it means to be an artist and how to stay true to their vision while navigating the adult world. Allen Say's cinematic illustrations create a sense of wonder and realism that honors a child's maturing perspective on life and career.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
It briefly features billboard advertisements for cigarettes, which were common in the mid-20th century. Parents may want to discuss the health risks of smoking, as this was less widely understood at the time. The resolution is ambiguous and hopeful, focusing on the boy's internal growth rather than a tidy ending.
Ideal Reader
A thoughtful 9 or 10-year-old who feels like an outsider because of their artistic interests. This is for the child who prefers drawing to sports and is starting to ask big questions about what they will 'be' when they grow up.
