I'm Sorry You Got Mad

Newbery Honor winner Kyle Lukoff explores the importance of learning to apologize.

Jack wants to apologize for hurting Zoe's feelings. He just can't seem to find the right words. 

Turns out there's more to an apology than just saying "I'm sorry."

Elevated by equally charming illustrations and text, I'm Sorry You Got Mad is a journey in learning the importance of an apology that goes deeper than just words.

Kyle Lukoff is the author of many books for young readers. His debut middle-grade novel, Too Bright To See, received a Newbery honor, the Stonewall award, and was a National Book Award finalist. His picture book When Aidan Became a Brother also won the Stonewall. He has forthcoming books about mermaids, babies, apologies, and lots of other topics. While becoming a writer he worked as a bookseller for ten years, and then nine more years as a school librarian.

Julie Kwon is an artist and illustrator based in Queens. A graduate of the Brown/RISD Dual-Degree program, her work is heavily inspired by the steady diet of manga, comics, and young adult novels she consumed growing up, as well as her many fond childhood memories. In her spare time, Julie enjoys reading, petting dogs, knitting and going on long walks with friends.

★ “In this witty epistolary classroom drama… Lukoff writes a sparkling examination of messy feelings and meaningful apologies.” –PW, starred review

★ “A master class in apologies and in storytelling through words and art.” –Kirkus, starred review 

★ “Smartly told, the sole text is that written on Jack’s often crumpled letters… The artwork adds layers to the story, showing readers what occurs while the letters are being composed… Lukoff models good behavior for kids (and, let’s face it, adults)without being lecturing or preachy. A must-have.” –SLJ, starred review

★ “Lukoff brings an enormous sense of compassion to a lesson that even adults can struggle with… Soft hues and gentle textures bring balance to the busy school goings-on, and Jack’s various moods are deftly conveyed as he trails at the edges of pages, angry, lonely, contemplative, until he makes amends to Zoe and builds a castle with her.” –BCCB, starred review