I loved this book about finding a new purpose. It was simple, but yet beautiful. I also loved the illustrations it added to the beauty of this book.

The House by Alberto Martin is a masterclass in slow-burn psychological tension. The atmosphere is the real star here; Martin’s prose makes every creaking floorboard and shifting shadow feel alive. It’s a "quiet" horror that settles under your skin, beautifully weaving together themes of grief and ancestral trauma.

The only reason for 4 stars is the pacing. The first half is very slow and heavy on internal monologue, which might test the patience of readers looking for a faster plot. However, the haunting conclusion is well worth the wait.

The illustrations were in a unique style that really helped support the storyline. I can see this book being used for a classroom activity about family and homes.

A stunningly illustrated story with a house as its main character. The house is happy while a family lives in it, watching them grow and be happy, while giving them shelter. They, in turn, take care of it.

When the humans are gone after a fire, what is the house to do when its primary purpose is gone? Slowly, nature helps the house restore its equilibrium and its sense of purpose.

It's a quiet story, full of warmth and hope. It's about healing after loss, about finding one's self again after sadness and learning how to live again.

Lovely. Empowering. Moving. All accomplished with an economy of words and soft, watercolour artwork that tug at the heart and leave one hopeful.

Thank you to Netgalley and to Publisher Spotlight for this ARC in exchange for my review.

Thank you #NetGalley for the ARC copy of this children’s book. The illustration was beautiful. The story fell short for me. I loved where it was going but then it just made me sad. I wish it would’ve ended better.