The Invisible Parade — A Gentle Journey Through Grief, Tradition, and the Paranormal
Written by bestselling author Leigh Bardugo and illustrated by John Picacio
The Invisible Parade celebrates the annual Día de Muertos through the lens of one family as they prepare the festivities, though the youngest girl still grieves the death of her grandfather. As a person who gravitates towards genre-bending books, I love and appreciate this book on multiple levels. As a lover of thoughtful paranormal and horror, this book is great as a cozy thriller for younger readers ages 8-12, with crossover potential younger or older, depending on the child. I also see this as a collectible for adults who enjoy paranormal, and anyone who wants to learn more about the holiday, or those who celebrate Dia de Muertos, Day of the Dead.
During our young heroine's journey, she meets the four horsemen of the apocalypse, each shares a time they met previously in the story, each with a lesson to teach her, beautifully shown through the illustrations. And in the end she comes to understand, though sometimes scary, death need not be feared. The revelations are subtle and beautifully embedded in the illustrations, which invite careful study and multiple readings.
As a lover of books, especially children’s books, and as an author and editor, I love this book because of its powerful message. The illustrations further the story and invite re-reads, especially after the big reveal, (spoiler) they visited previously within the illustrations as ravens. I believe with its cinematic storytelling and truly stunning illustrations, this book has classic potential and also the potential to help kids through tough times. It’s perfect for children experiencing grief, for families wanting to explore Día de Muertos, or for adults who appreciate sophisticated storytelling and breathtaking artwork in children's literature. This holiday season, I have already gifted this book to my friends who love and appreciate “horror,” along with the newly released Hansel and Gretel… More on that coming.
Why I Love It
- Genre-defying: A cozy thriller, cultural celebration, and emotional journey in one.
- Stunning artwork: John Picacio’s illustrations are nothing short of mesmerizing.
- Perfectly layered: Reveals new meaning with every read—ideal for classroom discussion or bedtime reflection.
- Cross-generational appeal: Kids, teens, and adults alike will find something to cherish.
- I have gifted this book to friends who love thoughtful horror and beautiful design, and it pairs perfectly with another new favorite: the reimagined Hansel and Gretel (more on this soon!).
Support and follow the creators:
Leigh Bardugo:
Website: LeahBarduga.com
Instagram: lbarduga
John Picacio:
Website: JohnPicacio.com
Facebook: JohnPicacio
Instagram: johnpicacio
Publisher Description
★ A National Bestseller! ★
The picture book debut from #1 New York Times bestselling author Leigh Bardugo and World Fantasy Award winner John Picacio.
"An understated masterclass in processing grief through culture." ―Booklist, starred review
It’s time to join the party! But Cala doesn’t want to go. While her family prepares for the celebration, Cala grieves her grandfather and tries to pretend she’s not afraid. But when she is separated from her family at the cemetery, Cala encounters four mysterious riders who will show her she is actually quite brave after all.
Everyone in the neighborhood was getting ready for the party.
Everyone knew somebody on the guest list . . .
This was the day the dead returned.
Adventure awaits readers of all ages on Día de Muertos in this stunningly original and lushly illustrated tour-de-force about family, love, and overcoming grief.
Brimming with magic and humor, The Invisible Parade is the first picture-book collaboration between award-winner John Picacio and New York Times bestselling Leigh Bardugo. Set on the night of Día de Muertos, Cala’s story is one of love, loss, and the courage that can be found in unexpected places.
This book belongs on your shelf. Note: Best represented in hardcover.
Find this book and more Spooky Season Reads on our InkADink Bookshop Storefront.
With over thirty years of experience in publishing, Kim Childress is an award-winning editor, author, speaker, and reviewer. She has built a distinguished career while also raising a personal focus group—her four children—whose experiences have enriched her insights into children's and young adult literature. More.
Founder, Childress Ink ~ Ink-a-Dink
Author ~ Editor ~ Reviewer ~ Speaker
Facebook: Kim Cildress, Childress Ink, Ink-a-Dink, Find Your Future in Art
Instagram: @kbchild
YouTube: Childress Ink
TikTok: Ink-a-Dink Bookstore