Nonsense! The Curious Story of Edward Gorey

A picture-book biography of the real writer and illustrator Edward Gorey, tracing how a self-taught reader who skipped grades and wore a giant fur coat grew into one of literature's strangest, most inventive storytellers.

For the kid who loves things a little spooky, a little strange, and completely their own, this is proof that being different is often the whole point.

• Big idea: Being unusual isn't something to outgrow — it can become the very thing that makes you brilliant.
• Vibes: Quirky, wry, a little gothic, and full of affection for the strange.

• enjoy stories about real people who marched to their own beat
• are drawn to things that feel a little spooky or mysterious
• like to learn how favorite creators got their start
• respond well to lyrical, artful language read aloud

• Real-life connection: Edward Gorey taught himself to read before he even started school — what's something you taught yourself how to do?
• Character & individuality: Edward Gorey liked to wear a big fur coat everywhere he went — what's something you like to wear that feels like YOU?
• Imagination: Edward Gorey mixed sweetness with spooky and silly all in one story — can you think of a story that's both funny and a little creepy?
• Story & inspiration: This book says Edward Gorey inspired other storytellers like Lemony Snicket and Tim Burton — have you read or watched anything by them?
• Feelings & empathy: Do you think it felt lonely or exciting to be so different from other kids growing up? Why?