Benediktsson, Ævar Þór. Stranded!: A Mostly True Story from Iceland. Anne Willson, Illus. Barefoot, 08/2023. 32pp. Picture Book. Trade $17.99. 978-1-6468-6991-6. Paper $9.99. 978-1-6468-6992-3. GRADES 1–4. OUTSTANDING.
This “mostly true” picture book recounts the story of the author’s grandfather being stranded on Surtsey, a small active volcanic island off the coast of Iceland. This is a fun and engaging story that will fascinate young readers, but the true star of the book is the vibrant and colorful artwork by Anne Wilson. As I was reading this book in a café, the barista came over and asked to take a photograph of the cover, saying that it looked so beautiful, they wanted to get a copy for their nephew. In addition to recounting the tale of how two men were stranded on an active volcano for over forty-eight hours, the book also offers young readers factual information about Iceland, volcanoes, Norse mythology, and even tomatoes. Prepared with inks, monoprints, and drawings, the illustrations portray the men with pale, peach-toned skin. This is a delightful story that can be read aloud to a class or enjoyed by a student alone who wants to immerse themselves in the stunning artwork showing lava flows, ocean gods, skyscapes, and sunsets.
Rachael Reiley—Hillcrest Elementary K-8 / Oakland Unified School District