At a Glance

Category/Genre(s):

Fantasy Picture Book

Age Range:

4-8

From the Publisher:

“Julia’s house is restless.

“Julia and her family of lost creatures are ready to move on. But where will they go? And how will they get there?

“Don’t worry—Julia has a plan for that! Julia always has a plan. But when Julia’s plans all fail…

What’s left for her?” (source)

Strengths:

• Beautifully illustrated
• Lots of fantastic mythical creatures
• a gentle message for everyone

Full Review

I first fell in love with Ben Hatke’s work a few years ago when I picked up his graphic novel, Mighty Jack. His art, which I think are rendered in watercolor, are always so lush and detailed. This book in no different. I enjoyed the first picture book in this series, Julia’s House for Lost Creatures, and this is a wonderful follow up. In fact, I think I like this one even better.

I enjoy how Hatke is able to take and put his own spin on fairy tales and mythical creatures. This book is full of all sorts of fascinating beasts and creatures from legends. Because of this, the book definitely lends itself to multiple readings as you will notice more small details on each reread.

I am not sure if it is because I tend to be an over planner, but I especially liked the message that it is okay if your plans don’t always work out. Or that it is okay to not have a plan sometimes. This rang especially true during this COVID era.

Final Verdict

I thoroughly enjoyed Julia’s House Moves On and would recommend it to anyone, especially those with little ones who enjoy fantasy!

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Julia’s House Moves On by Ben Hatke