A Hatful of Dreams by Bob Graham
Published by Candlewick Press on November 11, 2025
ISBN: 1536245046
Genres: Magical Realism
Format: Picture Book Fiction
Source: MSL Book Review
Goodreads

There is still one vibrant house on the otherwise derelict street where a multigenerational family lives. The most interesting character is the grandfather who strums a guitar and lavishes the three children with outlandish stories about why Grandpa never takes off his hat  When the children finally convince him to take off his hat, a galaxy is released.

The eclectic mix of realism and magic is what makes the story interesting. The author/illustrator’s signature comical watercolors bring to life the gloom of the abandoned neighborhood,  the warmth of the home, and the magic that leaks from Grandad’s hat. Mom and Grandad are pale-skinned, while Dad and the kids are brown-skinned. A hopeful book but I am unsure whether young children will understand the message.

Barb Rehmeyer, Liberty Library