I Am a Leaf - by Angelo Mozzillo (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

A poetic and visual masterpiece, perfect for introducing young readers to emotions through nature-inspired storytelling

Day after day, like a leaf in the wind, our emotions change. Sometimes we feel light and free, other times we feel weighed down. One day we feel brave, the next we feel scared and small. Some days we feel strong and confident, while on others we need to take a break.

This beautifully poetic picture book takes young readers on a journey through the ever-changing landscape of emotions. The book uses rhyming verse to talk about feelings, showing that it's OK to change and grow, just like a leaf.

Review Quotes

"Poetic and inventive, this singular picture book explores the endless possibilities of imagination and childhood. Through a combination of photographs and minimalist illustrations, the story combines real-world images of leaves with imaginative descriptions of a young boy riding swirling waves or a faithful steed, while also making room for quiet moments: "One day I take root. Another day I LEAP." The boy often mirrors the natural shape and movement of the leaves; the effect encourages a new way of observing the art all around us."

-- "Foreword Magazine" (7/15/2026 12:00:00 AM)

"A child explores various emotional states, leaving readers better suited to do the same. . . Mozzillo's spare text conveys impressive nuance through its perfect rhymes and unrhyming couplets. Meanwhile, Balducci's short and soft digital pencil sketches complete illustrative scenes rambling across vast white expanses . . . [T]his philosophical pick begs readers to embark on nature walks and sketch themselves into their own collages; it should find frequent use among science and art educators. A contemplative and poetic tale for emotionally attuned young naturalists."

-- "Kirkus Reviews" (5/18/2026 12:00:00 AM)

"In Mozzillo's mercurial picture book, a seasonal symbol of impermanence communicates the mutability of circumstances and feelings. Alongside frequently rhyming declarations, photographs of crisp autumnal leaves mingle with minimalist charcoal-like drawings to acknowledge the highs and lows. . . closing lines sagely center on an individual's need to freely evolve ("If someday you want me, / don't ask who I am now"). Change is natural, suggest the creators of this introspective book of opposites."

-- "Publishers Weekly" (6/29/2026 12:00:00 AM)

"Mozzillo follows a little boy as he experiences the highs and lows of daily life. From being outgoing and brave to feeling overwhelmed and scared, the little boy, like a leaf, blows from one emotion and experience to another. Despite it all, he is always supported by his trusted adult, much like a leaf is supported by a bough. The artwork is truly something special here. Balducci illustrates entirely in what looks like charcoal pencil and then uses highly detailed photographs of leaves as the details and accessories. The juxtaposition of the hyper-realistic leaves with the sketched illustrations is fun and feels different from most picture books."

-- "Youth Services Book Review" (9/1/2026 12:00:00 AM)

"Paired with -Balducci's delicate sketches, Mozzillo's minimalist text captures a wide range of emotions with remarkable economy. The illustrations are soft yet full of movement, drifting across stark white pages. Combined with real fall leaves and simple, poetic statements, they create an emotional journey that shows how one feeling can easily tumble into the next. Expertly translated from the original Italian by Muir, this quiet picture book invites readers to recognize and reflect on the changing emotions we all experience. Feelings can be difficult and confusing for young children; they need support as they learn to navigate the myriad emotions they experience. Mozzillo's gentle text offers reassurance while serving as a natural conversation starter between children and their caregivers. VERDICT This thoughtful picture book is a strong addition to social-emotional learning collections and is recommended for libraries looking to refresh or expand their -emotional support materials."

-- "School Library Journal" (9/1/2026 12:00:00 AM)

About the Author

Angelo Mozillo is an acclaimed Italian author of books for children and young readers, including the humorous Detective Linus series. I Am a Leaf won the prestigious Italian Andersen Prize as Best Picture Book in 2021 and was also named Best Children's Book overall. His books have been translated into several languages; this is his first published in English. Born in Naples, he now lives and works in Milan. Marianna Balducci is a celebrated Italian illustrator known for her innovative blend of illustration, photography, and digital techniques. She received the Andersen Prize for her work on I Am a Leaf. Balducci collaborates with major publishers and cultural institutions and is also an educator. She lives and works in Milan. Visit her at mariannabalducci.it.