MEREDITH McCLAREN is the writer and creator of Hinges for Image Comics, and the artist for the graphic novels Heart In A Box and Real Science Adventures: The Nicodemus Job. Additionally she's done short stories for Adventure Time, Bee and Puppycat, and Twisted Romance. She lives in Phoenix, Arizona. You can find Meredith on Instagram: @iniquitousfish.

* "Through Bell's cute, expressive, contemporary artwork and McClaren's uncomplicated yet profound writing, the story teaches a lesson about healthy grieving with subtlety and care and without platitudes.... Deliciously cute, funny, and touching."--Kirkus Reviews, starred review

"This thoughtful graphic novel by McClaren (the Hinges series) affirms that while life changes after loss, it can still be sweet."--Publishers Weekly

"McClaren builds dimensional characters and an ideally paced narrative that gives readers plenty of time to experience Emily's feelings--good and bad--alongside her. Bell's kawaii-informed style creates a cozy world that fans of Kristen Gudsnuk's Making Friends, Reimena Yee's Séance Tea Party, and Suzanne Walker's Mooncakes will eat up.... The levity of this magical story deftly balances the gravity of its subject matter and will leave readers wanting another bite."--School Library Journal

"McClaren handily navigates the theme of loss with care and respect, cleverly using emotionally infused desserts as a medium to delve into the complex world of feelings. The weighty issues of loss and grief are nicely balanced with the lighter elements of baking, humor, and friendship, which especially comes through in Bell's bright, softly rounded, and cartoonish artwork. An ideal read-alike for The Happy Shop or Pilu of the Woods, this emotionally intelligent story offers an engaging narrative with useful SEL tools."--Booklist

"Hand this book to a kiddo who's dealing with the death of a close caregiver to encourage them to turn to help when they need it."--The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

* "Equal parts love and heartbreak.... Unique and poignant."--BookPage, starred review

"Blends culinary charm with a sensitive exploration of grief."--The Horn Book

"A useful allegory for older kids and tweens explaining that sometimes we can't stop consuming things--like social media--that make us feel bad."--NPR

An ALA Best Graphic Novel for Children

Publisher: Bound to Stay Bound Books

Pub date: 2025-02-25

Length: 187 pages