MARKER AND LID

Campagna explores the unique gifts individuals bring to relationships in this picture book.

Marker and Lid (a magic marker and its cap) spend every day together. Lid’s strength, loyalty, patience, and supportiveness complement Marker’s boldness, creativity, and thoughtfulness. “The two just ‘clicked,’ right from the start,” the author explains. Marker’s “tricky” designs and “swoopy” ideas entertain Lid, who keeps Marker “bright and beautiful.” As Marker’s creative reputation grows, Lid begins to feel ignored and inferior. One day, while Marker and Lid are outside, a great wind blows each of them in opposite directions. Marker soon dries out and becomes weak and tired. Lid knows it must reach Marker and summons the courage and perseverance to do so. When they reunite, Marker praises Lid for saving both of them. Campagna’s Marker and Lid characters are dynamic and well developed. The storyline charts the relatable ups and downs of friendships, and the book includes a “Mindful Moments With Marker and Lid” section that highlights learning opportunities present throughout the text; readers are encouraged to consider their special gifts, try deep breathing exercises when they feel frustrated, and use positive self-talk. Campagna’s whimsical illustrations evoke the tenderness and joy of Marker and Lid’s friendship. However, while the blue-and-white color scheme does infuse the book with a calm vibe and aligns with Marker’s monochromatic nature, incorporating other hues might have made for a more visually stimulating read.

An imaginative and artistic depiction of collaboration.