Harris, Shawn. Duel. Shawn Harris, Illus. Holiday House/Neal Porter, 10/2026. [40]pp. Picture Book. Trade $19.99. 978-0-8234-5873-8. GRADES Preschool–2. OUTSTANDING.
Duel is an outstanding picture book featuring clever storytelling along with surprisingly intricate “smushed paint” artwork that Shawn Harris has perfected since he first learned the method in kindergarten. Harris creates the illustrations by applying acrylic and tempera paints to a sheet and folding it over at the page break so that each image is mirrored on both sides of the seam. The whole book is double page spreads. These “butterfly” squish paintings could seem gimmicky but they do not, because the symmetrical text melds perfectly with the artwork. The story is well written and also has symmetrical patterns that support the illustrations. Many of the page turns are masterful examples of how to create anticipation for readers and listeners. The calculated messiness and simplicity invites young readers to see that these illustrations are artwork they could have created themselves. Color choices are exceptional throughout the book. One spread shows two knights with lances approaching and finally meeting in a collision of yellows and pinks that is incredibly satisfying. This is a book you are going to want to read out loud with kids again and again.
Rachael Reiley—Independent