Book Spotlight

The House That Floated

by Guojing

Guojing’s The House That Floated is a stunning, wordless picture book that has earned six starred reviews for its luminous art and powerful storytelling. Following a family whose seaside home is threatened by rising waters, this cinematic tale invites reflection on climate change, resilience, and the meaning of home. 

The House That Floated

The House That Floated

Guojing

A stunningly beautiful picture book from a critically acclaimed artist that follows a family who lives in a house by the sea as water levels start to rise.

In this gorgeous, wordless story, a family makes their home on a cliff overlooking the sea. They live peacefully, spending their days exploring the ocean and filling their home with warmth and laughter. But as seasons pass, the waters rise, bringing the tides closer to the clifftop and ...

★ “The narrative is woven through with an unassailable belief in human goodness, the importance of family and community bonds, and the ineffable beauty of the fleeting world…. A hopeful vision of love and persistence in the face of peril.”
Kirkus Reviews, starred review

★ “Young readers will be moved by an ending that reminds us that home is not a place but being close to the ones you love.”
The Bulletin, starred review

★ “Inspired by real stories of climate displacement and buoyed by tenderness, this marvel of a book holds out hope in holding fast to what matters.”
Booklist, starred review

★ “Readers will be inspired to create their own narrative based on the images in this book, inviting conversation and reflection especially surrounding the book’s more emotional ­moments…. Imaginative and thought-provoking.”
School Library Journal, starred review

★ “A cinematic page-turner, it may fuel children’s imaginations as they weave their own stories to accompany these images.”
The Horn Book, starred review

★ “Although without words, The House That Floated will give rise to many conversations with children of all ages…. Guojing’s pow­erful story becomes a symbol of hope, and a timely reminder that we all live in a world of challenges and change.”
BookPage, starred review

A resonant portrait of adaptation that’s at once sorrowful and triumphant.”
Publishers Weekly

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