Smoot

Written by Michelle Cuevas · Illustrated by Sydney Smith

A shadow breaks free, inspiring others to seek vibrant lives.

5.0/7 Bookroo experts·3.8/5 Goodreads · 482 ratings

48 pages· 545 words· Est. 5 min read-aloud

$17.99Save 6%

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Bookroo's summary

Smoot, a shadow tired of his dull existence, breaks free from his boy and embarks on a colorful adventure. As Smoot dances and sings, other shadows are inspired to transform—frogs become princes, dragonflies become dragons. But what of the timid beings left behind? Will they find the courage to embrace their own daring journeys?

"If life is a book, then Smoot the Shadow had been reading the same yawn-colored page for seven and a half years."

— from the book

From the publisher

A brave shadow finds a more colorful life in this joyous picture book by the acclaimed author of The Uncorker of Ocean Bottles and illustrator of Sidewalk Flowers.

Smoot the shadow has been living a yawn-filled life for years. His boy never laughs and never leaps, so Smoot never does either . . . until the day he pops free, and decides to hit the road in search of the life he dreams about. And as he enjoys his first colorful day—singing, dancing, and playing—other shadows watch him, and they become brave, too. The frog’s shadow takes the shape of a prince, the dragonfly’s shadow that of a dragon. Even the rock’s shadow gets in on the excitement. But what will become of the timid beings their shadows have left behind? Will they finally be inspired to find their own daring?

At a glance

Format: Hardcover
Pages: 48
Words: 545
Reading age: 4–8
Audience: Picture
Lexile: AD580L

Themes & topics

Books about shadows Books about bravery Books about imagination Books about shyness Books about social themes

Good to know

Stories behind the story

Where did the name Smoot come from?

Smoot is a combination of the words "smudge" and "soot," which relate to the look of a shadow. I also thought it was a fun, playful name for such a mischievous shadow.

What readers & critics say