Growing Home

Gr 2-5–A grumpy fish. An optimistic houseplant. An old house full of oddities. In this cozy, character-driven chapter book, Ivy the ivy and Toasty the fish form an unlikely alliance with a book-loving spider and other curious creatures who enter the home of Jillian Tupper, a budding botanist, and her antique-dealer parents. Told in a warm and engaging narrative, the story gently explores themes of belonging, patience, and the quiet magic of being seen. Ferry’s prose is contemplative and whimsical, with a narrative voice that occasionally breaks the fourth wall with adroit drollness. Ivy’s naive narcissism and Toasty’s cheese puff obsession—along with the delightfully distinct personalities of the supporting cast—add depth, humor, and heart. Though the pace is unhurried, the emotional beats land well, and the evolving friendships are delicately rendered. The Fans’ grayscale illustrations are as atmospheric as ever, infusing elements of the home with texture and charm. Most of the human characters are depicted with paper-white skin. While the plot builds to an exciting climax, the gentle pacing and reassuring narration maintain a cozy, comforting tone throughout.