FICTION

Door

illus. by JiHyeon Lee. 56p. Chronicle. Oct. 2018. Tr $17.99. ISBN 9781452171425.
COPY ISBN
OrangeReviewStarPreS-Gr 3—In a dreary world of black and white, a young boy finds a mysterious key and follows a colorful insect through a door to a brave new world full of color and possibility. Though tentative at first, the boy soon meets many unconventional creatures that welcome him with open arms. Their language may be different, but it becomes clear that kindness and open-mindedness are universal and contagious. As the boy works his way through the new world, the illustrations gradually shift from the black and white of his home to the vibrant colors of this new world. Once the first door is opened, there are endless doors and possibilities awaiting. In the end, the boy returns home in full color, leaving the magic door open behind him. As in Lee's debut wordless picture book, Pool, the artist continues to push the boundaries of what a picture book can be. Her light and airy illustrations, made from a combination of colored pencils and lead pencils, ignite the imagination of young readers. Like Pool, this book celebrates the spirit of curiosity and imagination, and showcases the unlimited possibilities that arise when one is willing to encounter the unknown. Lee's message is lasting: in order to begin to live in mutual understanding and harmony, all you have to do is open the door.
VERDICT A unique take on meaningful themes of open-mindedness and inclusion make this an instant classic.

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