Book Review: Things in the Basement

 Things in the Basement by Ben Hatke

Bibliography:

Hatke, B. (2023). Things in the Basement. First Second.

Plot Summary:

Milo is tasked by his mother to go retrieve a sock from the basement. Through a series of events he is transported through different portals with surprises around every turn including interesting places and creatures. This book focuses on a young boy at a potentially difficult transition in life, where we have all been at some point, teaching lessons about facing your fears and believing in yourself, again.

Critical Analysis:

This book captures the reader with anticipation through a situation that many of us have been through; fear of the unknown. By presenting this plot, the author endears us to the character and what he is experiencing. You feel Milo's anticipation, uncertainty and fear. The dialogue is quirky and to the point. You experience the story through the frequent use of onomatopoeia. Due to the limited text on each page, this is a very approachable book, even for non readers. This book is divided into parts making it very digestible for readers, young or old. The illustrations in the this graphic story are stunning. The foreshadowing from the dark, mysterious pages is so intriguing. There seems to be a different color palette for each portal, which is beautiful. The book end leading to a possible sequel, in the attic.

Awards/Accolades:

Ben Hatke is a NYT best selling author

"A great book for spooky season! Also great for any super imaginative child who really does wonder what worlds may lay behind hidden doors." - Cocoa with Book

"A journey of loss both intimate and fantastical, swept along by flowing, emotive illustrations." - Kirkus Reviews

Connections:

Author/Illustrator Study:

This would be a shining example of how to illustrate and write a graphic story/novel. The way Ben Hatke illustrates is exceptional and displays many characteristics to learn from: color palette and use of color, design (full panel pages or different variations), facial expression, building the story through the illustrations.

Book Review by Barbara Jean Thompson