Leo

Written by Mac Barnett · Illustrated by Christian Robinson

A ghost seeks friendship and adventure with an imaginative child.

5.3/7 Bookroo experts·3.9/5 Goodreads · 3,522 ratings

52 pages· 867 words· Est. 7 min read-aloud· AD540L

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Bookroo's summary

Leo, an invisible ghost who loves drawing and making snacks, feels misunderstood when a new family moves into his home. Venturing out, he meets Jane, a child with a vivid imagination and a quest for a brave knight. Together, they embark on whimsical adventures, forging an unexpected friendship. Will Leo find his place in the world, or will his ghostly nature keep him forever unseen? Discover the enchanting journey of two unlikely friends in a tale that celebrates imagination and the bonds that transcend the ordinary.

From the publisher

You would like being friends with Leo. He likes to draw, he makes delicious snacks, and most people can’t even see him. Because Leo is also a ghost. When a new family moves into his home and Leo’s efforts to welcome them are misunderstood, Leo decides it is time to leave and see the world. That is how he meets Jane, a kid with a tremendous imagination and an open position for a worthy knight. That is how Leo and Jane become friends. And that is when their adventures begin. This charming tale of friendship—from two of the best young minds in picture books: the author of the Caldecott Honor–winning Extra Yarn and the illustrator of the Bologna Ragazzi Award–winning Josephine—is destined to become a modern classic that will delight readers for years to come.

Awards

The New York Times/New York Public Library Best Illustrated Children’s Books Award (2015)The E.B. White Read Aloud Honor (2016)

At a glance

Format: Hardcover
Pages: 52
Words: 867
Reading age: 3–5
Audience: Picture
Lexile: AD540L

Themes & topics

Books about friendship Books about ghosts Books about children and the supernatural

What readers & critics say

Reviews

5.3

out of 7

5.5

“With darling illustrations and a sweet story, this ghost story is a hit for any time of the year. It's a little longer than some of Mac Barnett's other books, but there are never too many words per page, so it has never been hard for my toddlers to stay invested in the story. The illustrations are just delightful.”

Lauren Hancock

Trusted reviewer

The author