Pajama Press

Emily Carr already leads a strange life. What will happen when she adds a mischievous monkey to the mix?

Emily Carr is one strange bird. She makes paintings nobody wants, keeps a houseful of animals, and often disappears into the woods in a tiny house on wheels. But even those used to Emily’s eccentricities are surprised when she comes home from a trip to buy birdseed with a small, lonely monkey.

In Emily’s rambunctious household, Woo the monkey is not lonely for long. She snatches at the parrot’s feathers, chases the dogs and cats—and completely wins Emily’s big heart. But when Woo’s mischief turns dangerous, Emily fears she may lose the little friend who brings her so much joy. Will the strength of Emily’s love, and Woo’s own strength, be enough to save her?

In When Emily Carr Met Woo, BC illustrator Dean Griffiths’s watercolours capture the mood of the 1920’s with historical details of Victoria and its surroundings. Monica Kulling, using prose as simple and expressive as Emily’s own brush strokes, retells the true story of one of Canada’s most beloved artists—and of her most beloved pet. The book includes historical photos throughout and concludes with a biography of Emily Carr.

Awards and Honours:
2014 CCBC Best Books for Kids & Teens selection
2014 Resource Links “The Year’s Best” selection

Reviews:
“Through simple, accessible text complemented by bright, engaging watercolors, Kulling has written a charming story about an exceptional woman.”—School Library Journal

“This sweet story of friendship and love will spark interest in the art and poetry of a Canadian national treasure.”—Booklist

“A read aloud that will fascinate younger students as it focuses on Emily Carr’s love of animals and her eccentricities, while older readers may notice some of her artistic techniques and her love for the outdoors.”—Resource Links

“This captivating picture book biography, written with elegance and straightforward simplicity, artfully captures Emily Carr’s passion for her craft, as well as her love for animals.   End notes and an archival photograph add depth and historical details and provide a great introduction for young artists.”—The National Reading Campaign

“…a captivating tale…delightful watercolour and pencil illustrations”—Canadian Children’s Book News

“When Emily Carr Met Woo will appeal to children who love animals, as well as art lovers… a definite addition to any home or classroom which values Canadian heritage.”—CM Magazine

“[A] touching story”—The Calgary Herald

“A charming story of friendship and artistry, When Emily Carr Met Woo will provide the perfect book for introducing young readers to a great of Canadian art…”—CanLit for LittleCanadians

“This is a fun take on an unconventional and important life.”—Pickle Me This

“Monica Kulling’s When Emily Met Woo is a perfect introduction to one of Canada’s most famous artists, Emily Carr.”—Sheryl McFarlane

“In this charming picture book we see how one of Canada’s great painters shared her life with a naughty monkey who could not seem to keep out of trouble.”—Through the Looking Glass