Today’s Perfect Picture Book was on my radar when I happened to see it in a favorite indie bookstore. I couldn’t resist purchasing it for my grandson – once you see that cover in real life, I don’t think you’ll be able to resist buying or borrowing it from the library either. Enjoy!
Title: 102
Written & Illustrated By: Matthew Cordell
Publisher/Date: LBYR/2026
Suitable for Ages: 4-8
Themes/Topics: fever, number, adventure, Alice in Wonderland, mice, crickets, beans, fantasy, journey, empathy
Opening:
I remember it clearly. On that day – October 2 – I saw a mouse at 102 Greenbriar Drive, scurrying between my feet and across the kitchen floor.
Mama did not like it.
On that day – October 2 – I’d been sent home early from school with a fever of 101.
I did not like it.
Brief Synopsis: A feverish romp through tiny treasures tied together by the number 102.
Links to Resources:
· Listen to this interview with Cordell in which he divulges interesting information about the making of and meaning behind 102;
· Dig through your art supplies and try drawing a picture with a type of pen, crayon, pencil, or marker that you haven’t tried before. How is it the result the same as your other drawings? How is it different? How does it feel to use a new type of drawing instrument?
· Make, and eat, bean soup. How many different types of beans are in your soup?
Why I Like this Book:
With nods to Carroll and Sendak, Cordell crafts a hero’s journey story centered on one number, 102. As this charming tale begins, young George returns to his home at 102 Greenbriar Drive on October 2nd, 10.2, with a fever of…101. Of course that fever soon rises by a degree, forcing our poor, sick hero into a feverish sleep. When he awakens, if, that is, he still isn’t asleep and dreaming, George sets off on a journey to help another, and thus himself.
The stars of Cordell’s latest creation undoubtedly are the illustrations: layers of inked hashmarks that convey so much emotion. But the tale, too, will make readers of all ages wonder whether the magic that launched George on his quest is real, or whether it’s all a dream.
I won’t spoil the ending, but 102 is a picture book that will enchant young and old for reading after reading.
A Note about Craft:
See above for the interview with Cordell who used layers upon layers of ink to hand craft each illustration using a scented ball point pen. A cheap, many-colors-in-one pen that looks less-than-comfortable for long stretches of drawing. The result is breath-taking!
This Perfect Picture Book entry is being added to Susanna Hill’s Perfect Picture Book list. Check out the other great picture books featured there!
Wander, Ponder, Write 