The Skull: A Tyrolean Folktale (a Macabre Story about Courage and Friendship - Chapter Book for Early Readers Ages 4-9 in Grades 1-4)

By Jon Klassen

Book Overview

A #1 New York Times bestseller
A Kirkus Book Prize Finalist
A New York Times Best Children's Chapter Book the Year
A Wall Street Journal Best Children's Book of the Year

Caldecott Medalist and New York Times best-selling author-illustrator Jon Klassen delivers a deliciously macabre treat for folktale fans.

Jon Klassen's signature wry humor takes a turn for the ghostly in this thrilling retelling of a traditional Tyrolean folktale. In a big abandoned house, on a barren hill, lives a skull. A brave girl named Otilla has escaped from terrible danger and run away, and when she finds herself lost in the dark forest, the lonely house beckons. Her host, the skull, is afraid of something too, something that comes every night. Can brave Otilla save them both? Steeped in shadows and threaded with subtle wit--with rich, monochromatic artwork and an illuminating author's note--The Skull is as empowering as it is mysterious and foreboding.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1536223360
• ISBN13: 9781536223361
• Release Date: July 2023
• Publisher: Candlewick Press (MA)
• Length: 112 Pages
• Weight: 0.88 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.8" x 6.2" x 8.1"
• Age Range: 6 to 9 years
• Grade Range: Grades 1 to 4

Customer Reviews

Interesting & Mysterious

My sister-in-law (Primary school teacher) and I read it. I got it because it seemed a good way to gage acceptable spookiness level for a five-year-old in my life. The teachers first question "Who is the audience for this book" I couldn't really answer. We did discuss what we thought might happen, what did; and what a few things may have meant. The mystery of what happens after the book closes. I liked the art and the feeling.

Beautiful book for kids who love spooky stories

This book is just the right level of spooky folktale, and the art is really gorgeous. I read it to a four year old and a nine year old at the same time and they both loved it. As an adult, it’s fun to read out loud and I can appreciate some of the deeper themes that are subtle throughout the story. We really love this book!