Beth Ferry

"Swashby and the Sea" by Beth Ferry is a sweet story about a grumpy sailor who has retired and lives by the seashore. He doesn't like to socialize with others until one day, he gets new neighbors, and he is forced into interactions that a mysterious friend nudges along. The little girl and her grandmother, his new neighbors, bring joy and cheer to his life even when he tries his best to resist them. The pictures give a salty, windy beach vibe and give just enough hints of the mysterious third party facilitating these interactions. There is a good message for kids about staying open to new experiences and friendships, even when you feel like you don't want to have anyone near you. It could bring more happiness into your life if you keep your heart open to it. I felt for the characters, and it was heartwarming at the end.… (más)

This is hella cute. Kudos for baking it mostly rhyme in Spanish, too! I liked challenging myself to see what the actual phrasing of the Spanish works be, since the translations are more the spirit than direct since they both have to rhyme.

I adore the art in here. Not only is the coloring and soft style gorgeous, but the paneling and page structure is so creative! I particularly like when Rock is searching for Stick and the page transitions to show the passage of time in panels. Rock's big roll down the hill is super fun as well! I never thought two dots on a line could express so much as did Stick's when he saw Rock about to land on him! Truly delightful. ☺️… (más)

This book would be good for intermediate students. This book is "Stick and Stone Explore and More" written by Beth Ferry, illustrated by Kristen Cella, published in 2022. This book Is a graphic novel about two best friends that are a stick and a stone that go on some adventures. They go on a scavenger hunt, they go to a campfire, and many more adventures and it feels like you are immersed in their world. I think this would be a great book to introduce kids to graphic novels and maybe for kids that don't like reading chapter books, I think this would be good for kids that want to read a funny, adventurous book.… (más)