2011

I wanted to do a book about a life well-lived but didn’t want to do a traditional scrapbook scenario. Topiaries came to mind.

—Lane

New York Times bestseller

A Caldecott Honor Book
A New York Times Best Illustrated Book
A Publishers Weekly Best Children’s Book
Silver Medal Society of Illustrators
An Amazon Best Book
A Barnes & Noble Best Book
A SLJ Best Book
Junior Library Guild Selection

An unassuming little masterpiece...

Bruce Handy, New York Times Book Review

★ STARRED

A rare glimpse into Smith’s softer side - as skillful as his more sly offerings, but crafted with honesty and heart.

Publishers Weekly

★ STARRED

A clever premise, brilliant pacing, and whimsical illustrations offer a distinctive look at the life and artistic vision of one great-grandfather.

School Library Journal

Lush and magical.

People Magazine

The perfect book to help kids understand old age.

Booklist

Readers who slow down will be rewarded by this visual feast that grows richer with each visit. Though this book has lots of adult appeal, it will also be a wonderful bridge to exploring family history with the very young.

Kirkus