Let’s Build a Dam!
Hilarity ensues when siblings set out to build a simple dam.
Siblings May, Lily, and Noah build a dam. Stone by stone, their dam grows higher and higher, until their creation attracts the attention of fishermen, pirates, and even the King and his fleet. The sky’s the limit, until Noah wants his stone back . . .
Each page builds upon the previous scene as the children’s imaginations also grow. Children will delight in pointing out the changing details on each page as they laugh along to this picture book about the boundlessness of imagination and sibling friendship.
Teacher’s Guide now available!
Daniel Fehr and Mariachiara Di Giorgio discuss the book’s process here!
Misty watercolors evoke the intangible air of dreams in this story about the magic of imagination. At the narrow stretch where a river feeds into a lake, three siblings set out to build a dam. As they work, they are joined by the Royal Navy, pirates, and a caricature of King George III himself; in the water beyond, epic sea battles rage. Though the dam is destroyed, the children return home buoyed by the day’s adventures—if a little damp.
⭐ Foreword Reviews, starred review
Powerfully demonstrates the wonders imagination can dream up. . . and how quickly reality can crash back in.
Kirkus Reviews
This very charming story will appeal to imaginative readers everywhere.
Youth Services Book Review
What a great story to encourage children to use their imagination. Lily, Noah, and May use their skills in make believe to enjoy the outdoors and create a world together through their dam project. The illustrations are gorgeous, allowing the reader to become a part of their world, too.
Lexi B., Trails Regional Library
a lovely book to share
Ann Bradley, Just Imagine
- A 2024 CBC Children's Favorites Winner
- dPICTUS 100 Outstanding Picturebooks, 2023
- Foreword Indies Book Award, finalist
