Reviews

Julia's House for Lost Creatures by Ben Hatke

mehsi's review

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5.0

A gorgeous little book about a little girl who is lonely and finds a very fun way to make her life more fun and full of people. :)

I have been eyeing this book for some time now, I know the author/illustrator has some great works, and this one looked absolutely lovely.
And then I got it for my birthday and I was delighted.

This book is really a treat, the illustrations are gorgeous. Colourful and there are quite a few details that keeps your eyes glued to the pages even after reading the words on the pages.

The main character is interesting, I loved her idea (though I wonder how magical she is that she can paint/write a sign and hang it at her door in mere hours) of setting up a House for Lost Creatures. Now she isn't lonely any more, though she also has no moments of quiet, even at night the creatures party on. Luckily, our main character is smart and makes several rules and plans to keep everyone (especially herself) happy and satisfied. Again, I am amazed at how fast she makes plans and signs. :)

Oh and I really loved that her house was located on top of a turtle. I didn't notice it at first (my first 2 pages were a bit stuck together). What a wonderful idea, I love it when worlds/houses are located on turtles or some other animal. It is really creative.

The ending left quite a bit to the imagination. I had kind of hoped we would see this newcomer in action, maybe a problem that arises due to this, but sadly it ended there. Maybe a second book? It would be lovely to have another book about Julia and her creatures.

All in all, this is one book I would recommend. Young and old will love Julia and will love her creativity.

Review first posted at http://twirlingbookprincess.com/

anjanettew13's review

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3.0

Sweet story about everyone doing their part.

hdbblog's review

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5.0

Delightful. That's exactly the word for Julia's House for Lost Creatures. Completely, and utterly, delightful. From the first time the reader lays on eyes on Julia's special home, it's all over. Perched on the back of a turtle, her home is the epitome of cozy and warm. The only thing missing? Friends. A house can feel much too large when you don't have friends to share it with.

What follows is an adorable story about working together, and solving problems. It's filled with trolls, patched-up kittens, and all manner of charming little creatures. With funny situations, and ample amounts of fun sounds to read out loud with little ones. This is the type of story that can be read over and over, without losing its magic.

There's something about a well done picture book that transcends all ages. Whether you're 6, or 60, Julia's House for Lost Creatures is guaranteed to make you smile. If the cover itself doesn't already enchant you, it's certain that the pages inside this gorgeously illustrated children's book will. Julia's home, the unlikely inhabitants, and everything they get up to makes for a story that is too fun to ignore. Have a budding reader in your life? They need this book. Plain and simple.

erine's review

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4.0

Delightful illustrations.

I'm more familiar with :01 as a publisher for graphic novels, and am typically impressed with the quality. This is no exception.

annieharhar's review

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hopeful inspiring lighthearted fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

Beautiful illustrations! Heart warming story! I need to buy all his books.

kirstenrose22's review

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5.0

My favorite new picture book in a long while.

happylilkt's review

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3.0

3.5 stars

Boundaries!!!!! Also great illustrations per usual from Ben Hatke.

ellenmorgan's review

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5.0

These books are so cute

robynriddle15's review

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4.0

I bought this for my niece for her birthday. I thought it was a nice short story and I hope she loves it. Only thing is, it needs a sequel.

kimlynn77's review

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5.0

I loved this little story! The creatures were entertaining!