On a small farm
an old truck grows older
and a young girl
grows up.
Their stories and their dreams are intertwined in this nuanced and intricately crafted picture book. Brothers and collaborators (co-authors and co-illustrators) Jarrett and Jerome Pumphrey's debut is a joyful and empowering celebration of imagination, determination, hard work, and home.
SELECTION OF INTERIOR SPREADS:
A LOOK AT PROCESS:
A mixture of analog (stamps and ink) and digital (Adobe Photoshop) techniques were used to create the illustrations for the 48-page book. First, each spread was designed and sketched out.
Based on the sketches, stamps were made using craft foam and foam core board.
Prints were made from the stamps, scanned and used to make each digital composition.
Color and other details were added digitally.
PROCESS VIDEOS
MEDIA
NPR Weekend Edition: Ever Wonder About That 'Old Truck'? 2 Brothers Wrote Its Backstory
The New York Times: Picture Books That Set a Child’s Imagination Free
“This charming debut is…a simple, beautifully constructed story about continuity and ingenuity…The Pumphreys have created a book that’s both timeless and au courant.”
—Maria Russo, New York Times Book Review
REVIEWS
"This heartfelt celebration of resilience in the face of change, with a determined black woman at its center, packs a powerful punch. As the old truck stays with its family, this charming book will stay with readers."
–Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
"This affectionate, pithy, and eloquent homage to farm life—and, quietly, Black families running farms, a rare sight in picture books—is uncommonly charming and rewards repeat readings."
–Booklist (starred review)
"A celebration of diligence and grit, the quiet text conjures a cyclical Giving Tree–reminiscent relationship, but with a healthier, deeply loving dynamic."
–Publishers Weekly (starred review)
"The simple text in this gentle chronicle of years blazes with the power of family, determination, and perseverance."
–School Library Journal (starred review)
"An instant classic, updating tried and true picture book themes for a diverse modern audience."
–BookPage (starred review)
"A quietly powerful ode to hard work and perseverance...Place this beauty on a low shelf with easy access. It will likely be in regular circulation among discerning young readers."
–Shelf Awareness (starred review)
"The Pumphreys allow their retro, earth-toned illustrations room to breathe in an uncluttered, gently paced presentation. The illustrations are infused with cheer and playfulness."
–Horn Book Magazine (starred review)
THANK YOU FOR VIEWING
