The Hole

Ages 4 to 8, Grades P to 3

A powerful story perfect for opening up conversations about loss

What does it feel like to lose someone you love? For one little boy, it’s like he has a hole in his life. It’s in the bottom bunk, where his little brother, Matty, used to sleep, and it’s on his brother’s chair at dinner. It follows him everywhere until the day he decides to really explore it. Inside the hole he confronts his grief—the sadness, the anger, and the truth of how much he misses Matty. His friend is waiting when he climbs out, and when she asks, “Do you want to tell me about your brother?” he’s surprised to find that talking about Matty is a comfort—and helps fill his hole with good memories.

About the Author

Lindsay Bonilla (LindsayBonilla.com) is a professional storyteller and author whose previous picture books include The Storyteller, the Parents’ Choice Award winner Polar Bear Island, I Love You with All of My Hearts, and The Note Who Faced the Music. She lives with her husband, two wild and creative kids, and her dog, Blitzen, in North Canton, Ohio.

Author Residence: North Canton, OH

Brizida Magro (SweetBeyond.com) is an illustrator based in Boulder, Colorado, where she teaches illustration at Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design. She also illustrated Gift & Box by Ellen Mayer, Saturday at the Food Pantry by Diane O’Neill, and Let Me Call You Sweetheart by Mary Lee Donovan. She is passionate about rock climbing, wandering the world, and bringing stories to life.

Illustrator Residence:Boulder, CO

Illustrator Hometown:Portugal