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“The artwork’s lush brushstrokes exude movement and energy… The work’s final words—“we make ripples”— resonate with layered meaning around not only a day’s paddle but circles of connection between community and the natural world.”

—Publishers Weekly

“Poetic, spare text is filled with onomatopoetic delights: the “fwap, fwap, fwap” of bird wings; the drip, drip, drip” and “PLOP” of paddle strokes. Yamasaki’s signature vibrant palette features warm, near-saturated hues of green, blue, and brown that evoke the brightness and joy of the day. A sunny celebration of nature, friendship, and sustainability.”

—Kirkus Reviews

Ripples

Written by Katie Yamasaki
Illustrated by Katie Yamasaki
Published by Norton Young Readers

A young girl and her Aunty set sail on their river raft, basking in each other’s company and in the beauty of the world around them—the sun sparkling on the water, the birds soaring over the mountains, the frogs and butterflies that gather in the reeds. Along the way, they pass friends and families engaged in caring for one another—sharing food, tending wounds, celebrating birthdays, and telling stories—who ultimately join them in cleaning litter and trash from the river.

Celebrated artist Katie Yamasaki’s newest picture book is a nuanced, lyrical celebration of our connections to each other and the environment. With electric, eye–catching illustrations, Ripples reminds us of the value of care and the ways we can perform it—for each other, and for the world around us.

Primary ISBN: 9781324053941
Publication Date: April 2026
Available As: Hardcover, eBook
Picture Book , Age 04 or older

Community Represented: ,

Themes: , , , ,

Setting: Unspecified

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: Unknown Arrival

Book Creator(s) Connection to the Community Represented: Own Voices/Lived Experience

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