In Dragonboy, the first in a proposed picture book series about an empathic and imaginative boy, Fabio Napoleoni turns a Maurice Sendak-style adventure into an ode to true friendship. Dragonboy, a smiling, round-headed kid in a dragon costume, sets off on a journey across seas, forests and fields with his pals, cat, yeti, sloth and dragon. The group makes incredible discoveries along the way: a ball of string! Daisies! A new friend! Napoleoni's acrylic paint on wood panels art is charming and packed with fun details for keen-eyed readers: Who can find Dragonboy's real name? And do those stuffed animals flopped around the bedroom make a surprise appearance elsewhere? Landscapes and characters are softly rounded, reflecting the oh-so-gentle messages of kindness and understanding throughout. What a terrific gift for young adventurers! --Emilie Coulter, freelance writer and editor