Julia's House for Lost Creatures
(Julia's House #1)

Julia, a resourceful, apron-clad redhead, lives in a dilapidated Victorian house that gives new meaning to the words "mobile home": it rests atop a giant tortoise. Once the house settles by the sea, Julia isn't content to sit alone with her amassment of antiques; instead, she opens a "House for Lost Creatures." Beasts quickly arrive, including a patchwork kitty, a melancholy mermaid, and a variety of Sendakian monsters. In his first picture book, Hatke (the Zita the Spacegirl series) crafts a funny, fantastical scenario with a girl hero in charge. A mix of panel sequences, spot illustrations, and full-bleed spreads push the action forward. When chaos erupts--elves (who consist solely of long beards, beaky noses, and pointy hats) invade the kitchen; the mermaid basks in the tub, demanding towels and soap; and a dance party commences after a troll discovers the record player--Julia assigns each misfit a household chore. Readers will approve of Julia's democratic solution, especially since it allows the menagerie to stay together--and in a cozy, snoozing heap no less. Ages 4-up. Agent: Judith Hansen, Hansen Literary Agency. (Sept.)

K-Gr 2--From the author of Zita the Spacegirl (Roaring Brook, 2011) comes an enjoyable blend of picture book, graphic novel, and fairy tale prose. One day, Julia's house comes to town and settles by the sea. But despite having books, a fire, and toast and tea, Julia finds her house simply too quiet. To remedy the boredom, she makes a sign and invites lost creatures to come and stay. This initially proves to be a good idea as Julia welcomes her new friends and revels in the company. That is, until it gets a little too crowded and a little too messy. Shutting herself in her workshop, she finds a solution to suit herself and the creatures, and she makes another very important sign--a house-chore chart. Soft illustrations complement Julia's spirit and the mischief of the creatures as the story plays out in both panels and spreads. The gentle flow of the story will draw in readers, and Julia's problem-solving will have them giggling as they nod along at her choices. A wonderful addition.--Ashley Prior, Lincoln Public Library, RI