Red Comet Spring 2027

RIGHTS: World/All

Hello, School!

WRITTEN AND ILLUSTRATED BY ROSEMARY WELLS

A heartwarming first-day-of-school story that transforms fear into friendship, showing young readers that even the biggest changes can lead to wonderful new beginnings from beloved author Rosemary Wells

SELLING POINTS FIRST DAY FEELINGS: Captures the universal mix of excitement and anxiety that comes with starting at a new school, offering reassurance to young readers.

FRIENDSHIP BUILDS CONFIDENCE: Shows how a simple act of kindness can ease fears and help children feel they belong.

CLASSROOM EXPERIENCE TOUR: Guides readers through a full school day, introducing familiar spaces and routines in an engaging way.

TRUSTED, BELOVED CREATOR: Features the timeless storytelling of Rosemary Wells, whose characters resonate deeply with children and families.

SOCIAL–EMOTIONAL LEARNING: Supports emotional growth by modeling empathy, courage, and resilience in new situations.

In Hello, School! by Rosemary Wells, moving to a new house means starting at a brand–new school—and for Eva, that feels both exciting and scary. With the help of her kind neighbor Milo and a welcoming classroom, Eva explores Sunnyside School—from the library and science lab to music, maker’s space, and the playground. By the end of the day, what once felt overwhelming becomes full of possibility, as Eva discovers that the very best part of school is finding new friends.

Rosemary Wells is the author and illustrator of more than 120 beloved books for children, including the classic characters Max and Ruby, Yoko, Noisy Nora, and Shy Charles. Known for her emotional honesty and gentle humor, her work has delighted generations of readers. She has also illustrated My Very First Mother Goose, edited by Iona Opie, and poems by A. A. Milne. Her books are widely used in homes and classrooms to support early literacy and social–emotional learning. Wells is also the author of If You Believe in Me, published by Red Comet Press, and lives in Connecticut.

WARM, INVITING TONE: Combines gentle humor and comforting storytelling to make the transition to school feel exciting and safe.

SPECIFICATIONS * Full-color illustrations throughout * 48 pages * WIDTH: 11" - 279mm * HEIGHT: 9 1/2" - 241mm * Hardcover POB PUB MONTH: MARCH

AGES 4 to 6 ISBN 9781636551784 US $22.99 CAN $31.00 UK £16.99

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eISBN 9781636551746

RED COMET PRESS

SPRING 2027

199

RIGHTS: World/All

In Our Family WRITTEN BY ANDREW HACKET, ILLUSTRATED BY CHARLOTTE AGER

A heartfelt celebration of what makes every family unique—and the love that holds us together

SELLING POINTS INCLUSIVE REPRESENTATION: A warm and affirming look at families of all kinds, celebrating diversity, belonging, and the many ways love shows up in our lives.

EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE: Gently explores big feelings—joy, fear, pride, and vulnerability— helping young readers understand themselves and others.

RELATABLE MOMENTS: From everyday messes to meaningful milestones, each scene reflects the real experiences that shape family life.

STRONG SOCIAL THEMES: Reinforces empathy, resilience, and connection, making it a powerful tool for classroom and home discussions.

LYRICALLY STRUCTURED TEXT: Repetitive, rhythmic phrasing invites read–aloud engagement and reinforces the book’s core message of unity.

A heartfelt and beautifully inclusive picture book about what it truly means to be a family. In Our Family celebrates what makes us unique, shares our happiest moments and hardest days, making mistakes, lifting each other up, and always finding our way back to one another—because family isn’t about perfection, it’s about connection, belonging, and love. With gentle, lyrical text and warm, expressive illustrations, this touching story captures the everyday moments and big emotions that shape who we are, from laughter and messes to distance and togetherness, honoring the many ways families grow, change, and stay connected no matter what. Perfect for reading together at home or in the classroom, In Our Family is a reassuring and empowering reminder that every family is different, and every family belongs.

Andrew Hacket is a writer, second–grade teacher, and father of three.

He is the author of several picture books, including Hope and the Sea, Curlilocks and the Three Hares, and In This Classroom (Red Comet Press). Hacket recognizes that being a kid is hard, and he writes to create ways for kids to see themselves in stories and characters, to accept and overcome their insecurities, or to escape for just a little while through the power of their imaginations. He lives with his family in Central Massachusetts. Visit him at andrewhacket.com. Charlotte Aager is a London–based illustrator whose warm, expressive artwork captures the beauty in everyday moments and the emotions that connect us. With a style that feels both intimate and inviting, she brings authenticity and heart to her characters, celebrating the messiness and magic of real life. Her art for In Our Family gently reflects the many ways families grow, change, and belong. Visit her at charlotteager.co.uk.

RED COMET PRESS

WARM, EXPRESSIVE ART: Soft, childlike illustrations bring warmth and authenticity, capturing both the chaos and comfort of family life.

SPECIFICATIONS * Full-color illustrations throughout * 32 pages * WIDTH: 9" - 229mm * HEIGHT: 9" - 229mm * Hardcover POB PUB MONTH: FEBRUARY

AGES 3 to 7 ISBN 9781636552163 US $19.99 CAN $26.99 UK £14.99

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eISBN 9781636552170

SPRING 2027

200

RIGHTS: World/All

A Gentle Light

THE UNTOLD STORY OF BRITISH SPY AND WORLD WAR II HERO NOOR INAYAT KHAN WRITTEN BY SHIRIN SHAMSI, ILLUSTRATED BY TARA ANAND

A WWII story of courage, sacrifice, and an unbreakable spirit—Noor Inayat Khan’s true journey proves that even the gentlest light can defy the darkness

SELLING POINTS QUIET COURAGE: The remarkable true story of Noor Inayat Khan, a gentle, peace– loving young woman who became one of World War II’s most courageous spies.

UNLIKELY HERO: A Muslim woman rooted in Sufi teachings of love and nonviolence who risked everything to stand against injustice and tyranny.

HISTORICAL RELEVANCE: Brings to life a powerful and often overlooked figure whose actions helped shape the outcome of WWII. STRONG FEMALE LEAD: Celebrates a pioneering woman who broke barriers as the first female radio operator sent into Nazi–occupied France.

LYRICAL STORYTELLING: Poetic, accessible text introduces young readers to complex history with clarity, emotion, and depth.

A powerful and moving picture book biography of Noor Inayat Khan—the unlikely spy whose quiet courage helped change the course of World War II. Born into a Muslim family rooted in Sufi teachings of peace, love, and nonviolence, Noor was a gentle child who cherished stories, music, and writing. But as war swept across Europe and injustice spread, she knew she could not stand by. Leaving behind everything she loved, Noor joined the British war effort and became the first female radio operator sent into Nazi–occupied France. Working in constant danger, she transmitted critical messages for the Resistance, evading capture again and again—even as her network was dismantled around her. With lyrical text and evocative, atmospheric illustrations, A Gentle Light illuminates the extraordinary true story of a young woman who defied expectations, risked everything, and proved that bravery does not always roar—sometimes, it shines.

Shirin Shamshi writes stories for young readers that celebrate courage, compassion, and the power of gentle voices. Inspired by history and real lives, her work invites children to see how even quiet acts can shape the world. Born in the United Kingdom, she now lives in the United States, where she and her husband raised their six children—three human and three feline. She spends her days writing, sketching, and painting, and finds great joy in visiting schools and reading to children. She lives in Chicago, Illinois. Visit her at shirinshamsi.com. Tara Anand is an illustrator whose evocative, atmospheric artwork brings emotional depth and historical stories vividly to life. Her work is known for its rich textures and cinematic sense of light, drawing readers into each scene with nuance and feeling. Born in India, she now lives in New York City, where she creates art that explores memory, identity, and the human experience. Visit her at taraanandart.com.

RED COMET PRESS

STUNNING VISUALS: Atmospheric, cinematic illustrations heighten tension and emotion, immersing readers in Noor’s journey.

SPECIFICATIONS * Full-color illustrations throughout * 52 pages * WIDTH: 8" - 203mm * HEIGHT: 11 3/4" - 298mm * Hardcover POB PUB MONTH: MARCH

AGES 5 to 8 ISBN 9781636552125 US $19.99 CAN $26.99 UK £14.99

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eISBN 9781636552132

SPRING 2027

201

RIGHTS: World/All

Grayson, the Library Guardian WRITTEN BY MELISSA TAYLOR, ILLUSTRATED BY DAVE MCCALL

A story-loving gargoyle springs to life to save his beloved library—and reminds a community that books are where the magic begins

SELLING POINTS LIBRARY LOVE: A heartfelt celebration of libraries as welcoming spaces where stories, knowledge, and community come together.

WHIMSICAL HERO: A book– loving gargoyle takes center stage, offering a fresh, imaginative twist that will delight young readers.

INSPIRED BY CLASSICS: Clever nods to beloved tales like Aesop’s fables and Stone Soup model problem–solving and creative thinking.

COMMUNITY CONNECTION: Highlights how collaboration can bring people together and revive shared spaces.

READING MATTERS: Reinforces the joy and importance of reading in a way that feels fun, not didactic.

High above a grand library in France, the stone gargoyles come alive each night—but while the others roar and romp, the littlest gargoyle, Grayson, would rather read. When he overhears that fewer visitors are coming and the library may close, Grayson knows he must act. Turning to the stories he loves for inspiration, he hatches a clever plan to bring the community back through the doors. At first, the crowds come for the spectacle—but soon they rediscover the magic waiting on the shelves. Warm, whimsical, and full of heart, Grayson the Library Guardian is a joyful celebration of libraries, imagination, and the power of stories to bring people together.

Melissa Taylor is an award–winning educator, author, and literacy advocate who writes children’s books that celebrate curiosity, community, and the joy of learning. She is the author of Tova’s Sweet Solution (Red Comet Press) and Grayson the Library Guardian. Taylor is also the creator of the popular blog Imagination Soup, where she shares book recommendations and educational resources for families and teachers. With a background in early childhood and elementary education and years of classroom experience, she brings a deep understanding of young readers to her storytelling. Taylor lives in Denver, Colorado. Visit her at imaginationsoup.net Dave McCall is an illustrator and animator based in Essex, England. Trained in illustration, typography, and hand–drawn animation, he spent a decade creating visual narratives for film before turning to children’s books. His work is inspired by classic animation, graphic novels, and richly imagined worlds, and is known for its strong sense of character, atmosphere, and storytelling. McCall brings a cinematic quality to his illustrations, creating immersive scenes that invite readers to step fully into the story. Visit him at davemccallart.com

RED COMET PRESS

PERFECT FOR STORYTIME: Engaging, read–aloud–friendly text paired with lively, atmospheric illustrations makes this ideal for classrooms and libraries.

SPECIFICATIONS * Full-color illustrations throughout * 32 pages * WIDTH: 8 3/4" - 222mm * HEIGHT: 10 3/5" - 269mm * Hardcover POB PUB MONTH: MARCH

AGES 3 to 7 ISBN 9781636552002 US $19.99 CAN $26.99 UK £14.99

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eISBN 9781636552019

SPRING 2027

202

RIGHTS: World/All

Livia and the Crooked Tree WRITTEN BY ELISA SABATINELLI, ILLUSTRATED BY IACOPO BRUNO, TRANSLATED BY CHRISTOPHER TURNER

A luminous coming-of-age story of belonging, courage, and the quiet power of seeing beyond fear when it matters most

SELLING POINTS LYRICAL STORYTELLING: A beautifully written, atmospheric novel that blends poetic language with a compelling coming–of–age narrative.

TIMELESS THEMES: Explores belonging, otherness, and moral courage in a way that resonates deeply with today’s readers.

UNFORGETTABLE CHARACTER: Livia is a striking, original heroine whose difference becomes a quiet source of strength.

RICH SENSE OF PLACE: A vividly rendered Italian hilltop village, where the rhythms of nature mirror the emotional life of the story.

POWERFUL SYMBOLISM: The crooked olive tree serves as a haunting and meaningful metaphor for resilience, fear, and growth.

In a small Italian hilltop village where life follows the steady rhythm of the olive harvest, ten–year–old Daniele has always known where he belongs.

Then Livia arrives—slight, pale, and impossible to ignore—living in a crumbling house beneath a crooked olive tree that has never borne fruit. At first, she is only a curiosity. But when the harvest begins to fail, whispers take root and fear spreads, and Livia’s differences make her an easy target. Drawn to her quiet strength yet afraid of standing apart, Daniele must find the courage to see beyond what others believe—and decide for himself what is true. Lyrical, evocative, and deeply affecting, Livia and the Crooked Tree is a powerful story of friendship, belonging, and the moment a child begins to understand that what is fragile is not always weak—and that truly seeing can change everything.

Elisa Sabatinelli is an Italian author and screenwriter whose stories for young readers are known for their emotional depth and lyrical storytelling.

She is the author of the award–winning The Secret of the Magic Pearl, celebrated for its imaginative scope and heartfelt themes. Iacopo Bruno is an award–winning Italian illustrator whose richly atmospheric artwork has appeared in books for children and young adults around the world, including The Secret of the Magic Pearl. Known for his evocative use of light, texture, and mood, he brings depth and emotion to every story. Together, they create works that explore belonging, memory, and the quiet power of imagination. Sabatinelli and Bruno live and work in Italy.

RED COMET PRESS

CLASSROOM & BOOK CLUB APPEAL: Ideal for discussion, with strong SEL connections and themes of empathy, bias, and standing up for what is right.

SPECIFICATIONS

* Full-color illustrations throughout with interactive mechanisms * 196 pages * WIDTH: 6 1/2" - 165mm * HEIGHT: 8 7/25" - 210mm * Hardcover POB PUB MONTH: MARCH

AGES 7 to 11 ISBN 9781636551968 US $18.99 CAN $23.99 UK £13.99

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eISBN 9781636551975

SPRING 2027

204

RIGHTS: World/All

Scoop!

WRITTEN BY ELYSSA GAVIN, ILLUSTRATED BY RICKY DE LOS ANGELES

An excavator's first day takes a sweet, unexpected turn in this charming story about courage, confidence, and finding your purpose

SELLING POINTS VEHICLE APPEAL: A lovable excavator hero delivers strong truck–and–construction interest for young readers.

SWEET SURPRISE TWIST: An unexpected ice–cream shop setting adds humor, charm, and standout originality.

SOCIAL–EMOTIONAL LEARNING: Gently explores first– day jitters, resilience, and growing self–confidence.

DEFYING EXPECTATIONS: Encourages children to embrace change and discover their own unique path.

READ–ALOUD FUN: Rhythmic, action–driven language with repeating verbs invites participation and engagement.

HIGH REREAD VALUE: Bright, playful storytelling and satisfying emotional payoff make it a repeat favorite.

On his very first day on the job, Scoop the excavator is ready to do what he was built for—scoop, lift, crush, and dump. But as his engine rumbles to life, so do his nerves. What if he isn’t good enough? But Scoop is determined to do his best. It’s not rocks and boulders he wants to lift . . .

Scoop wants to work at an ice–cream shop instead! Scoop is thrown into a world of cones, toppings, and very eager customers. With each careful scoop—and a messy mistake along the way—Scoop realizes that making people happy and being true to himself is the perfect combination. Warm, playful, and full of heart, Scoop! is a delightful picture book that blends vehicle fun with a reassuring social–emotional message about resilience, self–confidence, and defying expectations. Perfect for fans of construction trucks and sweet treats alike, this story will inspire young readers to embrace the unexpected and believe in themselves—one scoop at a time.

Elyssa Gavin is a picture–book author, curriculum editor, and National Board Certified Teacher. Drawing on her classroom experience, she writes stories that resonate with young readers. Her debut biography, Junko’s Climb, celebrates determination—while her fiction explores characters who defy expectations and discover their purpose. She lives in the Kansas City area. Visit her at elyssagavincom. Ricky de Los Angeles is a character designer and illustrator whose work spans animation, publishing, and product design. A graduate of CalArts, he has created expressive, story–driven characters for Walt Disney Company, Nickelodeon, and Disney TV Animation. His art is known for its warmth, humor, and strong visual storytelling. He lives in Los Angeles, California. Visit him at ricky– delosangeles.com.

RED COMET PRESS

COMMERCIAL ART STYLE: Reminiscent of Dreamworks & Pixar, the art should be popular with children.

SPECIFICATIONS * Full-color illustrations throughout * 36 pages * WIDTH: 9" - 229mm * HEIGHT: 10" - 254mm * Hardcover POB PUB MONTH: APRIL

AGES 4 to 8 ISBN 9781636552187 US $19.99 CAN $26.99 UK £14.99

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eISBN 9781636552194

SPRING 2027

205

RIGHTS: World English

Calico

CAT CAPER #1: TWISTED WISHES WRITTEN BY DIEGO VAISBERG AND ILLUSTRATED BY DGPH STUDIO, TRANSLATED BY JAY NODEN

A mischievous stray cat's wild, wish-gone-wrong adventure proves that sometimes what you want isn't what you need—and friendship is the greatest treasure of all

SELLING POINTS HILARIOUS WISHES GONE WRONG: A fast–paced comedy where every wish backfires in the most unexpected and laugh– out–loud ways, keeping young readers fully engaged from start to finish.

PLAYFUL CAUSE–AND–EFFECT STORY: Demonstrates how words matter and how choices lead to consequences, making it perfect for classroom discussion and early learning themes.

IRRESISTIBLE CHARACTER: A mischievous, street–smart calico cat whose curiosity and personality drive the story with humor and heart.

BOLD GRAPHIC APPEAL: Striking, high–contrast illustrations and dynamic layouts create strong visual energy ideal for today’s young readers and reluctant readers alike.

Meet Calico—a clever, curious stray with a knack for getting into trouble.

When a misstep sends her tumbling into the city’s murky sewers, she stumbles upon a glowing, crown–wearing “Golden Mouse” who promises to grant her three wishes. But Calico quickly discovers that wishes aren’t always what they seem: the “most delicious food” turns out to be broccoli, a mountain of fish hides terrifying surprises, and a treasure hoard is nothing but glittering junk. With each hilarious misfire, Calico learns that getting exactly what you ask for can lead to unexpected chaos—and that sometimes, what matters most isn’t food or fortune, but friendship. Bursting with bold, graphic illustrations and comic timing, Calico: Cat Caper#1: Twisted Wishes is a fast–paced, laugh–out–loud tale with a warm, satisfying heart.

Diego Vaisberg is a graphic designer and the art director of DGPH Studio based in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Vaisberg’s two decades of visual design work spans advertising, animation, toys, games, and children’s books. He is also a professor of illustration design at Universidad de Palermo, a father of two, and a Star Wars fan. The Calico project is an idea conceived by him and his beautiful daughter, and developed alongside the editors at Mosquito Books, an independent publisher based in Barcelona, Spain. DGPH Studio is a pool of creativity lead by Diego Vaisberg (Argentina) and Martin Lowenstein (Germany), with a team of talented illustrators from around the world. DGPH Studio has worked for clients such as Quarto, Barefoot, Nike, and NNN. The Studio employs a mode of expression that combines art, image, and animation with different forms of visual communication.

PERFECT READ–ALOUD: Rhythmic pacing, big reactions, and comedic reveals make this a standout choice for group reading and storytime.

WARM FRIENDSHIP MESSAGE: Beneath the humor lies a satisfying emotional core that celebrates companionship over wishes, wealth, or perfect outcomes.

UNIQUE FORMAT: Features ears that protrude above the top of the book.

SPECIFICATIONS * Full-color illustrations throughout * 56 pages * WIDTH: 5 3/4" - 146mm * HEIGHT: 8 1/2" - 216mm * Hardcover POB PUB MONTH: APRIL

AGES 5 to 8 ISBN 9781636552200 US $12.99 CAN $17.99

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eISBN 9781636552217

RED COMET PRESS

SPRING 2027

206

RIGHTS: World/All

Won Ton

A CAT TALE TOLD IN HAIKU (ANNIVERSARY EDITION) WRITTEN BY LEE WARDLAW, ILLUSTRATED BY EUGENE YELCHIN

Celebrate the 15th anniversary of this critically acclaimed, award-winning classic—a shelter cat’s unforgettable journey to home, told in irresistible haiku

SELLING POINTS ANNIVERSARY CLASSIC: Celebrating the 15th anniversary of an award–winning, critically acclaimed favorite that continues to delight new generations of readers.

DISTINCTIVE FORM: Told entirely in witty, accessible haiku, offering a fresh and engaging entry point for poetry units and classroom use.

HUMOR & HEART: A sharp, funny feline voice balances laugh–out–loud moments with genuine emotional depth and tenderness.

ADOPTION STORY: A relatable and reassuring journey from shelter uncertainty to finding a forever home, perfect for social– emotional learning.

CLASSROOM–READY: Ideal for read–alouds and curriculum tie– ins, introducing poetic structure, voice, and perspective in an inviting way.

Marking its 15th anniversary, this award–winning and critically acclaimed picture–book classic returns to captivate a new generation of readers.

Told through a sequence of witty, emotionally astute haiku, a shelter cat chronicles his journey from cautious observer to confident companion, capturing the universal longing to belong. A standout upon its original publication, Won Ton earned multiple honors and widespread critical praise, and remains a favorite for classroom read–alouds and poetry units.

With humor, heart, and a distinctive voice, this timeless story—paired with expressive, elegant illustrations—offers a fresh and deeply engaging exploration of adoption, identity, and the quiet, transformative power of love.

Lee Wardlaw is an award–winning author of more than two dozen books for children and young adults, including the beloved Won Ton: A Cat Tale told in haiku, which received widespread critical acclaim upon its original publication, and My Book of Firsts, also published by Red Comet Press.

Known for her wit, warmth, and inventive use of form, she brings humor and heart to stories that resonate with young readers. She lives in Santa Barbara, California. Visit her at leewardlaw.com. Eugene Yelchin is an internationally acclaimed author and illustrator whose work has earned numerous honors, including a Newbery Honor for Breaking Stalin’s Nose.

Trained as a stage designer in Russia, he brings a distinctive artistic sensibility to his picture books, combining expressive line work with emotional depth. He lives in Los Angeles, California. Visit him at eugeneyelchin.com.

RED COMET PRESS

STUNNING ART: Expressive, elegant illustrations by Eugene Yelchin bring personality, nuance, and visual richness to every page.

SPECIFICATIONS * Full-color illustrations throughout * 40 pages * WIDTH: 7 1/2" - 191mm * HEIGHT: 11" - 279mm * Hardcover POB PUB MONTH: MARCH

AGES 4 to 8 ISBN 9781636552224 US $19.99 CAN $26.99 UK £14.99

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eISBN 9781636552231

SPRING 2027

207