The Funeral, Matt James’ debut children’s book as illustrator and author, has racked up five starred reviews from Kirkus, Publishers Weekly, School Library Journal, Booklist, and Shelf Awareness.
“Enveloping and original, James’ authorial debut offers an honest exploration of a difficult and delicate subject. Exceptional.” –Kirkus
“James’s creation isn’t designed to start a discussion about death. It’s more a story about Norma that happens to involve a funeral, and it traces with a big heart the way she makes sense of this puzzling event.” –Publishers Weekly
“Dazzling abstract details are paired with evocative language… A notable portrayal.” –School Library Journal
“James uniquely and playfully captures the particularities of a child’s perspective” –Booklist
“James’s inviting multi-media artwork in The Funeral includes acrylic and ink on masonite and dimensional elements of cut paper, masking tape, rolled-up twine, cardboard and scroll-sawn masonite. The overall effect gives the illustrations depth and carries the story beyond the text. Simply lovely.” –Shelf Awareness
