The Way Things Work Now

Erika-San

Kozo the Sparrow

Tree of Cranes

Tea with Milk (Rise and Shine)

Silent Days, Silent Dreams

The Lost Lake

Knots in My Yo-Yo String

Once/Now/Then/After

The Inker's Shadow is an autobiographical graphic novel by Allen Say that tells the story of his own adolescence after moving to the United States from Japan. The book follows young Allen as he navigates the challenges of cultural differences, language barriers, and the search for identity in a foreign land. After being sent away by his father to attend a military academy in California, Allen faces loneliness and racism but also discovers his passion for drawing and storytelling. The narrative explores themes of self-discovery, resilience, and the transformative power of art. Allen's journey is one of personal growth as he finds his place between two cultures and ultimately decides to pursue his dream of becoming an artist.

Discover Your Child's Next Read

The Way Things Work Now

David Macaulay, 2016

Erika-San

Allen Say, 2009

Kozo the Sparrow

Allen Say, 2023

Tree of Cranes

Allen Say, 1991

Tea with Milk (Rise and Shine)

Allen Say, 1999

Silent Days, Silent Dreams

Allen Say, 2017

The Lost Lake

Allen Say, 1989

Knots in My Yo-Yo String

Jerry Spinelli, 1997