After the Fall

Written & illustrated by Dan Santat

A famous egg who fell off a wall recounts his journey to overcome his fears and learn to fly.

6.2/7 Bookroo experts·4.4/5 Goodreads · 11,798 ratings

40 pages· 502 words· Est. 4 min read-aloud

$19.99Save 5%

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Bookroo's summary

Humpty Dumpty, once a fearless bird watcher, now fears heights after his infamous fall. Struggling to reclaim his favorite perch atop the city wall, he must confront his deepest fear. Will Humpty find the courage to rise again and rediscover the joys he once cherished? This heartwarming tale explores resilience and the power of facing one's fears, reminding us that true life begins when we get back up.

From the publisher

From the New York Times–bestselling creator of The Adventures of Beekle: The Unimaginary Friend comes the inspiring epilogue to the beloved classic nursery rhyme Humpty Dumpty.

Everyone knows that when Humpty Dumpty sat on a wall, Humpty Dumpty had a great fall. But what happened after?

Caldecott Medalist Dan Santat’s poignant tale follows Humpty Dumpty, an avid bird watcher whose favorite place to be is high up on the city wall―that is, until after his famous fall. Now terrified of heights, Humpty can longer do many of the things he loves most.

Will he summon the courage to face his fear?

After the Fall (How Humpty Dumpty Got Back Up Again) is a masterful picture book that will remind readers of all ages that Life begins when you get back up.

Awards

The E.B. White Read Aloud Honor (2018)

At a glance

Format
Pages: 40
Words: 502
Reading age: 4–8
Audience: Picture
Lexile: AD550L

Themes & topics

Books about facing fears Books about coping with failure Books about bravery Books about feeling scared Books about determination

After the last page

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What readers & critics say

Reviews

6.2

out of 7

6.5

“After reading this for the first time, I immediately added to my "to buy" list. I'm a sucker for "fractured fairy tales" (which this isn't quite, but in the same vein) and this is an incredibly clever take on Humpty Dumpty "after the fall," exposing the emotional trauma following his traumatic accident and how he goes about conquering his fears. No spoilers here, but when I hit the last page I was blown away: so clever and so many warm fuzzies when Humpty realizes his full potential.”

Marmee

Trusted reviewer

5.0

“This makes a great read aloud with its vibrant and careful illustrations and text. Santat thoroughly validates the fear that stems from failure and the obstacle that fear can create to further endeavor. His sensitive treatment of the Egg's efforts to return to the top of the wall reminds us to be patient with ourselves and others who may be afraid to take another crack at something.”

Grammy

Trusted reviewer

For readers who can't stop at one