26 Fairmount Avenue

Written & illustrated by Tomie dePaola

Book #1 in the 26 Fairmount Avenue series

A young boy recounts his childhood experiences, including a hurricane, building a new home, and starting school.

3.9/5 Goodreads · 3,542 ratings

80 pages· 6,762 words· Est. 57 min read

$6.99Save 4%

In stock. Also at Amazon or Bookshop.

Bookroo's summary

In 1938, young Tomie's world is turned upside down as his family builds a new house amidst a hurricane. From accidental chocolate mishaps with his Nana to skipping kindergarten, Tomie's adventures are both hilarious and heartwarming. As he navigates a year filled with unexpected events, including a memorable trip to see Snow White, Tomie's precocious nature shines through. Will his curiosity lead to more chaos or delightful surprises? Join Tomie on a journey through a year of laughter and learning, where every day brings a new escapade.

From the publisher

A Newbery Honor Book Tomie’s family starts building their new house at 26 Fairmount Avenue in 1938, just as a hurricane hits town, starting off a busy, crazy year. Tomie has many adventures all his own, including eating chocolate with his Nana Upstairs, only to find out–the hard way–that they have eaten chocolate laxative. He tries to skip kindergarten when he finds out he won’t learn to read until first grade. I’ll be back next year, he says. When Tomie goes to see Snow White, he creates another sensation. Tomie dePaola’s childhood memories are hilarious, and his charming illustrations are sure to please. A thoroughly entertaining and charming story.–School Library Journal DePaola successfully evokes the voice of a precocious, inquisitive five-year-old everyone would want to befriend. Charming black-and-white illustrations animate the scenes and add a period flare, including a photo album-like assemblage of the characters’ portraits at the book’s start.–Publishers weekly