Sebastian and the Balloon, written and illustrated by Philip C. Stead. This whimsical delight reminds me of those Penny cartoons on
Pee-Wee's Playhouse which explored the unpredictable nature of a story being told by a child. You never quite know what's going to happen next in
Sebastian and the Balloon, about a bored lad who makes a balloon out of his grandmother's afghans and patchwork quilts. Stead perfectly captures the rhythm of a fantastical yet quiet tale being spun by an imaginative kid. For example, after Sebastian beside a leafless tree, he meets a bear and after a deadpan exchange, they decide to eat pickle sandwiches. Of course. I love the wordless spread showing them enjoying this culinary delight. Throw in a very tall bird who inadvertently causes harm to the balloon and three elderly sisters who repair the damaged item, and you have one wonderfully peculiar story. Stead's charming illustrations have a retro feel to them; the book feels as if it has been around forever.
Sam & Dave Dig a Hole, written by Mac Barnett, illustrated by Jon Klassen. Another book that has a dream logic to it is this surrealistic collaboration between the hilarious Barnett and Caldecott winner Klassen, who truly has become one of the most unique children's book artists working today. The titular heroes have that striking deadpan Klassensque look as they dig a hole with their dog helping (the cat watches from above). Readers will surely become exasperated (but in a good way) with the boys, who keep missing the giant diamonds buried in the ground. Excellent perspective shots show the kids switching directions right at the very worst possible moment, just as they are about to discover the impressive treasures. Oh yes, and there are bones for the pooch as well. It all leads to a strange scene that involves them falling falling falling. Where will they land? This talented duo has given us a lot of great books; this one ranks among their very best.
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