Loose Threads

An embroidered shawl’s underside represents an alternate realm in this inventive picture book. Having lost keys, a scarf, gloves, an umbrella, and more, Leilah deflects their mother’s scolding. Leilah explains that “everything here is in its place... just like the stitches in Grandma’s embroidery.” But stories are told about an adjacent domain, “full of knots, dangling threads, and odd animals,” that can only be seen in dreams. Convinced that the missing things have fallen through holes in the world, Leilah ventures out, armed with supplies to make repairs. But closing up those holes has unexpected and unpleasant results around the summer solstice. Sketchlike characters atop textile and scarf backgrounds bring to life Isol’s eerie concept, which celebrates the fascinating reverse side of intricate stitching patterns. Character skin tones reflect the hue of the page. Endnotes cite the highlighted scarf as being a gift from the Tamer Institute in Palestine. Ages 7–9. (June)