- Age Range:3 – 8 years
- Grade Level:Preschool – 3
- Lexile Measure:AD480L
- Hardcover:40 pages
- Publisher:Little, Brown Books for Young Readers; 1st edition (April 8, 2014)
- Language:English
- ISBN-10:0316199982
- ISBN-13:978-0316199988
EXCERPT from barnesandnobles.com:
This magical story begins on an island far away where an imaginary friend is born. He patiently waits his turn to be chosen by a real child, but when he is overlooked time and again, he sets off on an incredible journey to the bustling city, where he finally meets his perfect match and-at long last-is given his special name: Beekle.
New York Times bestselling and award-winning author and illustrator Dan Santat combines classic storytelling with breathtaking art, creating an unforgettable tale about friendship, imagination, and the courage to find one’s place in the world.
Awards: 2015 Caldecott Medal Winner, New York Times Bestseller, #1 Indiebound Bestseller, Huffington Post Best Overall Picture Book of 2014, PBS Parents Best Picture Book of the Year, NPR “Great Read”, ALSC Notable Book for Children, A Chicago Public Library Best Picture Book of the Year.
Rationale for Inclusion:
This book has been the recipient of numerous awards and notable achievements including the 2015 Caldecott Medal award and being the Huffington Post Best Overall Picture Book of 2014. With the effective use of vibrant illustrations and a well-written story that focuses on friendship and going to great lengths to achieve your goals, this book provides children with a sense of whimsy and wonder as it encourages them to explore the depths of their imaginations. I also love the fact that this book provides children with an inspirational take-home message: Don’t be afraid to follow your dreams.
Children's Materials: Large Group Bibliography 