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The House that Floated
CCBC Review:
In this wordless story rendered in soft chalk drawings, a family faces a difficult change with teamwork and creativity. Before their child is born, a young couple lives in a small, red house on the edge of a sheer cliff overlooking the sea. When they have a child, their lives continue in much the same way. Together they fish, watch dolphins, enjoy the outdoors, and carve small wooden figurines for their fireplace mantel. As time passes, though, it becomes clear that environmental change is taking place. The sea level is rising, bringing water perilously close to the top of the cliff, until finally it is at their doorstep. Working together as always, the family gathers wood and constructs a large, sturdy raft. They take a moment to say goodbye to what remains of the land that was their home before leaving in a small motorboat, towing the house on the raft behind them. They travel overnight before spotting a lighthouse, on a different cliff, with people nearby: the promise of a new home. Sadly relevant in today’s changing climate, this story celebrates determination and resilience. ©2026 Cooperative Children’s Book Center
Illustrated by Guojing
CCBC Age Recommendation: 4-8
Age Range:
PreK-Early Elementary (Ages 4-7)
Grades 3-5 (Ages 8-10)
Format:
Picture book
Subjects:
Change
Climate Change
Environmental Challenges
Wordless Books
On CCBC Booklist:
Eco-Reading: Selected Books for Children and Teens about Our Earth and the Environment
Publishers:
Random House, Random House Studio
Publish Year: 2025
Pages: 40
ISBN: 9780593709054
CCBC Location: Picture Book, Guojing