An empowering story about coming to terms with change through creative problem solving
Lily’s family is happy in their old green house at the end of the lane, but progress soon encroaches. When Grandma refuses to sell their home to developers, the city just builds around them. Soon their house is smack-dab in the middle of a multi-lane highway. As traffic rushes by day and night, Lily and her family begin to feel differently about their beloved home.
Using crayons and a little creativity, Lily draws up a plan to keep her Grandma’s home and leave the highway behind. With the help of the construction crew that brought change to their neighborhood, Lily and her family take to the sea in their green house and set sail for a new place to call home.
Inspired by Chinese “nail houses” that end up stranded in a sea of construction when owners refuse to sell, this memorable picture book celebrates resourcefulness, negotiation, and collaboration in the face of change.

DEBORAH KERBEL a écrit des livres pour les jeunes adultes, les préadolescents et les lecteurs débutants. Ses romans ont été présélectionnés pour les Prix littéraires du Gouverneur général, le prix du livre de l’année pour les jeunes adultes de l’Association canadienne des bibliothèques et le Manitoba Young Reader’s Choice Award. Elle vit à Toronto avec son mari, ses deux adolescents et Freddie, leur chien adopté.

DEBORAH KERBEL was born in London, England, and now lives in Thornhill, Ontario with her husband, son and daughter, and a rescue dog named Freddie. Deborah has written a number of picture books, and is the author of four young adult and two middle-grade novels, including My Deal with the Universe. Her books have been shortlisted for the Governor General’s Literary Award, the Canadian Library Association’s YA Book Award, and many readers’ choice awards. Visit her online at www.deborahkerbel.com.

Deborah Kerbel's profile page

YONG LING KANG is an illustrator who grew up in Singapore and is now based in Toronto, Ontario. She is fascinated by storytelling, and has honed her craft through picture books, Manga, cartoons, and formal schooling in an animation program. She has illustrated several picture books, including The Midnight Club, This House Is Home, and William's Getaway.

Yong Ling Kang's profile page

"Kerbel has written a timely story about an issue occurring in many areas ... Her imagery throughout is compelling."

Canadian Children's Book News

"This story pulls at the heartstrings but is ever hopeful. A small book that tackles big concepts in a thoughtful and touching way."

Children’s Literature

"This House Is Home reminds us that home is more than a structure. It has roots that are grown of family, and, though it can change, as necessary, it carries the promise of steadfastness, even if in transition."

CanLit for Little Canadians

"Besides enjoying This House Is Home as a read-aloud story, parents and adults working with children may find the book useful when having discussions about the environment and urban development."

Canadian Review of Materials