Chris Van Dusen

Author and illustrator Chris Van Dusen recommends One Morning in Maine by Robert McCloskey  “I think when you’re born in Maine (as I was) but grow up someplace else (as I did), Maine never really leaves you. When I was a kid and I wanted to go back, I always grabbed One Morning in Maine by Robert McCloskey. I wanted to be on that island with Sal and Jane. I wanted to explore the rocks along the shore in front of their house. I wanted to go to Buck’s Harbor for ice cream. I wanted to LIVE in that world! The story is simple but the illustrations are extraordinary! And the closing line, “CLAM CHOWDER FOR LUNCH!” is perfect.”

One Morning in Maine (Viking Press, 1952) is recommended for ages 3 and up.

Be sure to check out Van Dusen’s picture books The Circus Ship (Candlewick Press, 2009), If I Built a Car (Dutton Children’s Books, 2005), and Down to the Sea with Mr. Magee (Chronicle Books, 2000).

Learn more at ChrisVanDusen.com.