The Skull

Caldecott Medalist and #1 New York Times best-selling author-illustrator Jon Klassen delivers a deliciously macabre treat for folktale fans.

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.

'Klassen’s recognizable graphite-and-ink illustrations capture the haunting—yet somehow charming—atmosphere of the stark Austrian setting, where shadows loom, bones come to life, and apricot sunshine cuts through the gloom. . . . Is the story creepy? You bet, but it’s also weirdly sweet and characterized by agency, kindness, and choice. . . . Klassen’s newest offering will be highly coveted.' Booklist (starred review)

'Readers can enjoy a quick read, the implementation of interesting literary elements, and the humor that we have come to know from Klassen.' School Library Connection

About the Author

Jon Klassen is the author-illustrator of I Want My Hat Back; This Is Not My Hat, the only book to ever win both the Kate Greenaway and Caldecott Medal; and, We Found a Hat He also illustrated Extra Yarn and the Caldecott Honor book Sam and Dave Dig a Hole, both written by Mac Barnett, as well as Ted Kooser’s House Held Up By Trees. Before making picture books, he served as an illustrator on the animated feature film, Coraline. Originally from Niagara Falls, Canada, Jon now lives in Los Angeles, California with his wife.