The Way Things Work Now

Kozo the Sparrow

Silent Days, Silent Dreams

Knots in My Yo-Yo String

Ruby Electric

Good Books for Bad Children: The Genius of Ursula Nordstrom

Before They Were Artists: Famous Illustrators As Kids

Mark Twain: Young Writer (Childhood of Famous Americans)

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

Kozo the Sparrow

Allen Say, 2023

Silent Days, Silent Dreams

Allen Say, 2017

Knots in My Yo-Yo String

Jerry Spinelli, 1997

Ruby Electric

Theresa Nelson, 2003

Good Books for Bad Children: The Genius of Ursula Nordstrom

Chloe Bristol, Beth Kephart, 2023

Before They Were Artists: Famous Illustrators As Kids

Elizabeth Haidle, 2021

Mark Twain: Young Writer (Childhood of Famous Americans)

Henry S. Gillette, Miriam E. Mason, 1942