The Day the Books Disappeared

All-star authors Joanna Ho (Eyes That Kiss in the Corners) and Caroline Kusin Pritchard (The Keeper of Stories) team up with Caldecott Medalist and National Book Award Winner Dan Santat in this celebration of the freedom to read.

Arnold didn’t mean for the books to disappear—not exactly. It all started because he liked his book about airplanes best. Why would anyone want to read about tomatoes or ostriches or submarines (ew, the worst!) when they could read about planes, instead?

When Arnold realizes—POOF!—he can make the other books vanish, he goes a little too far. Before he knows it, all the books are gone…including his. Can Arnold figure out how to bring them back before it’s too late?

This book about books celebrates themes of empathy, interconnectedness, and the value of diverse and differing perspectives.

Publication date: July 15, 2025

*”Destined to become a cherished read-aloud in classrooms everywhere, this title is a first choice for picture book collections.”

— School Library Journal, *STARRED REVIEW*

“It’s a seamless mix of magic and relatable classroom drama that models curiosity as a means to connection.”

— Publishers Weekly

“Dynamic ink-and-digital illustrations highlight Caldecott Medalist Santat’s expressive portraiture, and Pritchard and Ho’s quick and plotty text skillfully employs humor to deliver its educational yet undidactic message. Given increasing limits on book access, this pick could be the honey that enlightens a few flies.”

— Booklist Review

“Arnold’s stubbornness makes for both humor and relatability, and the suggestion that it’s important to try to see things from other people’s perspectives is sweet and silly here, rather than saccharine…. In the world of books about the importance of books, this one stands out for highlighting how books can remind readers of people they love or help them forge new connections.”

— Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books Review

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