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Garbage Gulls
Two boys spend the day doing nothing but imagining in this poetic ode to the freedom of summer.
On a hot summer day that feels like it’s lasted forever, two brothers stretch out in the back seat of an abandoned car in a strip-mall parking lot. They pass the time thinking up another place, scattering ketchup-soaked fries around their whale of a car to attract the garbage gulls. They have to leave just the right amount, the older boy tells the younger, so enough gulls will come. Enough to lift them up in their tangle of wings and take them to the sea.
Lyrical text by Dorson Plourde and expressive art by Isabella Fassler - two debut creators - combine to perfectly capture the mood of a languid summer day. Without access to a beach or summer camp, with only fries and colas and a stretch of asphalt, the brothers dream themselves to the sea the only way they can - through their shared imagination. This evocative picture book is sure to transport children through the clouds to the imagined delights beyond.
On a hot summer day that feels like it’s lasted forever, two brothers stretch out in the back seat of an abandoned car in a strip-mall parking lot. They pass the time thinking up another place, scattering ketchup-soaked fries around their whale of a car to attract the garbage gulls. They have to leave just the right amount, the older boy tells the younger, so enough gulls will come. Enough to lift them up in their tangle of wings and take them to the sea.
Lyrical text by Dorson Plourde and expressive art by Isabella Fassler - two debut creators - combine to perfectly capture the mood of a languid summer day. Without access to a beach or summer camp, with only fries and colas and a stretch of asphalt, the brothers dream themselves to the sea the only way they can - through their shared imagination. This evocative picture book is sure to transport children through the clouds to the imagined delights beyond.
32 pages, Hardcover
Published June 4, 2024
21 people want to read
About the author
Dorson Plourde
2 books4 followersDorson Plourde is a writer and K-5 art educator living in Cambridge, Massachusetts. He is influenced by the philosophical questions posed in children’s picture books (and by children themselves) as well as the compulsion to stay present in an age rooted in distraction. His work focuses on the intimacies embedded within suburban riff-raff, early onset nostalgia, and the anxieties that determine the day-to-day.
He is also an expert in owning a falcon, creating shelters, and climbing down Mount Katahdin because books about surviving in the wild are a must in Maine, which is where he grew up.
His debut picture book Garbage Gulls and the Spring 2025 follow up Unnaturally Blue were released by Kids Can Press.
He is also an expert in owning a falcon, creating shelters, and climbing down Mount Katahdin because books about surviving in the wild are a must in Maine, which is where he grew up.
His debut picture book Garbage Gulls and the Spring 2025 follow up Unnaturally Blue were released by Kids Can Press.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
July 17, 2024
Read for my toddler's bedtime. I'm unfamiliar with garbage gulls. I thought there would be information about these birds but this story was about two boys hanging around on a hot summer day, chewing gum, eating fries, and wanting to go to the beach because they have never been there.
This book is definitely good for this summer because we are currently experiencing over 100 degrees everywhere.
The boys wait for the garbage gulls to come. They collected lots of ketchup and fries and drank lots of soda. They use fries and ketchup as bait for the garbage gulls to come. Eventually the garbage gulls came and lifted up the car with the boys in it surrounded by fries and ketchup. They were so happy to be dropped off at the beach.
This story unfortunately didn't grab my toddler's attention as much as anticipated because she wanted to know where the boys' parents were. I do love the illustrations.
Thank you KidsCanPress for the opportunity to read and review.
This book is definitely good for this summer because we are currently experiencing over 100 degrees everywhere.
The boys wait for the garbage gulls to come. They collected lots of ketchup and fries and drank lots of soda. They use fries and ketchup as bait for the garbage gulls to come. Eventually the garbage gulls came and lifted up the car with the boys in it surrounded by fries and ketchup. They were so happy to be dropped off at the beach.
This story unfortunately didn't grab my toddler's attention as much as anticipated because she wanted to know where the boys' parents were. I do love the illustrations.
Thank you KidsCanPress for the opportunity to read and review.
June 26, 2024
2 boys sit in an abandoned car on a hot summer day. They have collected packets of food for some garbage gulls. The garbage gulls come and carry the boys and car to the beach. I think. I don’t think this story is very clear.
November 22, 2023
Two words. Garbage Gulls.
If you’re hoping for your typical children’s book, one that’s often surface level and“easy” (patronizing) this is not the book for you or your child, and if you’re looking for another cookie-cutter, cutesy picture book, you won’t find that here.
Instead, the moment you open this book you are transported into a world that might seem familiar, one many folks can relate to. A world where luxuries like a trip to the beach, a white picket fence, and a sit-down dinner often seem just out of reach for some, yet table stakes for others.
This book isn’t just for kids, but adults too. It pushes the boundaries in terms of artistry in both the words that embody that feeling of otherness that every kid can relate to (but might not know how to articulate just yet) and in the illustrations that help them visualize their world when words just won’t do.
The subtle nods to strip malls, parking lots to pass the time, and Little Trees (can't forget the Little Trees) were ones that I could instantly relate to. Growing up in what most call the ghetto and that feeling of escape, it's easy to avoid this topic, and instead of shying away, Garbage Gulls leans in.
This story is about wonder, the reality of just getting by with what you’ve got, and most importantly, not forgetting to have a little fun in this life.
The world could use a few more Garbage Gulls if you ask me.
If you’re hoping for your typical children’s book, one that’s often surface level and
Instead, the moment you open this book you are transported into a world that might seem familiar, one many folks can relate to. A world where luxuries like a trip to the beach, a white picket fence, and a sit-down dinner often seem just out of reach for some, yet table stakes for others.
This book isn’t just for kids, but adults too. It pushes the boundaries in terms of artistry in both the words that embody that feeling of otherness that every kid can relate to (but might not know how to articulate just yet) and in the illustrations that help them visualize their world when words just won’t do.
The subtle nods to strip malls, parking lots to pass the time, and Little Trees (can't forget the Little Trees) were ones that I could instantly relate to. Growing up in what most call the ghetto and that feeling of escape, it's easy to avoid this topic, and instead of shying away, Garbage Gulls leans in.
This story is about wonder, the reality of just getting by with what you’ve got, and most importantly, not forgetting to have a little fun in this life.
The world could use a few more Garbage Gulls if you ask me.
November 25, 2023
From the tall trim size to the unique art to the two-word alliterative title that doesn't try to be cute, you know this picture book is going to be different from most. It doesn't try to be cute or commercial (not that there is anything wrong with a book being either of those things). Instead, it basks in the glory of its subtle weirdness. And that's what makes it special. This story is bountiful with literary devices (and French fries and seagulls) that make way for deeper discussion and interpretation. Adding to that discussion and interpretation is a fun fantastical element to inspire conjecture. Some of my favorite lines include: "we are microwave molten goo," "The garbage gulls are picky," and "our constellation of crumbs others beasts from the streets. We are ready to be picked." The artwork is warm and vibrant with a style that immediately evokes the nostalgic, summery, literary vibes of the text and overall story. This picture book is filled with the power of imagination and the heartwarming bond of siblings (without the distraction of technology, which lends itself to the nostalgia and timelessness of this tale). It's also nice to find a picture book with a structure that feels more organic. This could easily be a great read (and teaching device) for students beyond the 4-8 range. Check it out!
November 12, 2023
"This evocative picture book is sure to transport children through the clouds to the imagined delights beyond." No it's not. It' sure to make children ask themselves, as I did, "are these words even in the right order?", "how actually do you 'gulp thick afternoon'?" and "is that supposed to be a steal from the Sistine cherubs?".
OK they won't all ask the latter, but they will wonder just what the heck is going on here. What is going on is that two kids, slumming around in an abandoned car in an abandoned mall parking area, are goading a mahoosive load of seagulls to come and transport them seaward, as they've never been to the beach. What is also going on is we're being delivered this plot in sparse, unfriendly kind of poetry, twisting words to demand a second read, if you care to honour this in such a way. The visuals certainly manage to convey boredom and magic alike, but the text just left me feeling obtuse, which I doubt many young readers of this will appreciate.
OK they won't all ask the latter, but they will wonder just what the heck is going on here. What is going on is that two kids, slumming around in an abandoned car in an abandoned mall parking area, are goading a mahoosive load of seagulls to come and transport them seaward, as they've never been to the beach. What is also going on is we're being delivered this plot in sparse, unfriendly kind of poetry, twisting words to demand a second read, if you care to honour this in such a way. The visuals certainly manage to convey boredom and magic alike, but the text just left me feeling obtuse, which I doubt many young readers of this will appreciate.
August 22, 2025
An oddly poetic story of two boys that sit in a junky car in a run-down parking lot. They try to lure the garbage gulls to the car with french fries and packets of ketchup. Then the gulls "lift" the car and take them to the beach. I caught myself re-reading to make sure I understood it correctly, so I don't think a K-3rd reader will enjoy it. It doesn't really make sense. You have to use LOTS of imagination with this one. I didn't really like the illustrations. They are far too "sketchy" for my liking. It just makes each page look too busy. They were created with crayon pencils, graphite, then finished digitally. I came away with more questions than answers in this book. I think K-3rd readers will be confused during/after reading this one. I kept thinking: 1. Are they living in that car? 2. Where are their parents? 3. That's so dangerous (a hot car on a summer day)! It just wasn't my cup of tea, but maybe others will enjoy it. (Diamond 25-26)
November 27, 2023
Garbage Gulls brought me back to my childhood and those lazy days of summer. I had endless hours to fill without the structure of a school day or adult direction. You learn to be creative to keep from being bored.
In Garbage Gulls two brothers take on this same problem. I loved seeing the characters creatively use their time without technology.
The author has some wonderful word choices that add to the mood of a slow summer day. Text and illustrations work well together to portray the power of children's imagination. This is a thoughtful book which lends itself to many parent/child discussions.
In Garbage Gulls two brothers take on this same problem. I loved seeing the characters creatively use their time without technology.
The author has some wonderful word choices that add to the mood of a slow summer day. Text and illustrations work well together to portray the power of children's imagination. This is a thoughtful book which lends itself to many parent/child discussions.
October 16, 2024
The nostalgic, summery illustrations were neat--they reminded me of a certain style I saw sometimes in picture books growing up in the 90's. I found the verse to be a little oblique for a children's book:
"Beaks break through clouds.
a swarm of summer.
Swooshes of bent wings send tails
across the whale.
Our constellation of crumbs gathers
beasts of the streets.
We are ready to be picked."
Still, this is a picture book of uncommon artistry, even if I sometimes found it to be a little too cute for its own good.
"Beaks break through clouds.
a swarm of summer.
Swooshes of bent wings send tails
across the whale.
Our constellation of crumbs gathers
beasts of the streets.
We are ready to be picked."
Still, this is a picture book of uncommon artistry, even if I sometimes found it to be a little too cute for its own good.
May 4, 2024
I've been known to feed creatures through a passenger window, gulls (and sometimes even rats!) being the most common of them-- but the kids in Garbage Gulls have a bigger plan in mind for luring in these feathered friends with fries. The descriptive narrative paired with the vivid illustrations truly make Garbage Gulls pop with texture and stimuli out of the book and into the imagination.
July 30, 2024
An abandoned junk car in a strip mall, some French fries, and a fistful of ketchup packets are all two young kids need to escape the summer heat. They use the fries and ketchup to lure seagulls. Then, as the birds make off with the fries, the kids imagine the birds are taking the car, with them in it, to the beach. After cooling off in the ocean, the kids return home, refreshed and happy.
Lyrical text combine with bold illustrations to make this truly original.
Lyrical text combine with bold illustrations to make this truly original.
December 24, 2024
Who is the audience for this psychedelic version of The Birds? Two kids hanging out on a hot summer day in an abandoned car in a shopping mall parking lot bait a flock of gulls with fries and ketchup to lift the car and transport them to the ocean and back to the lot as night falls. Are the boys homeless? Where are their parents? Are the boys orphans? Apparently, the writer and illustrator have preferred to present more questions than answers.
December 13, 2023
While younger readers will enjoy the idea of two kids living in a world of make-believe, older ones will relate to the feeling of the wistful nostalgia of a hot summer day with your best friend. The evocative prose reads like a beautifully written poem that you’ll want to memorize. The author has a precise and impeccable use of language. This is an incredible debut.
December 1, 2023
Put aside your digital gadgets, and let your imagination soar with two brothers, as they look for something to do on a lazy summer day. Lyrical text, complemented by beautiful warm illustrations set the mood in this unique children’s book.
Read
January 23, 2024This book started out as a fun and realistic first trip to a beach and then it got wild. Adults may feel nostalgic and enjoy this wild stretch of imagination. Thanks to NetGalley for letting me read this
June 5, 2024
A poetic ode to summer, siblings, imagination, and—of course—garbage gulls. From the idiosyncratic text to the surrealistic illustrations, this book is one of a kind. We need more picture book makers taking risks like this. Highly recommend.
January 19, 2025
I was hoping to love this one. 4.5 star illustrations, but the story left so much wanting, in my opinion. I liked the snapshot aspect of these particular kids summer, but I think the actual text was confusing, and like I said, ultimately felt unsatisfying.
November 22, 2023
Wonderful book for both kids and adults. Beautiful illustrations and unique concept. Highly recommend!
November 30, 2023
Excellent, clever, has your child stretching their knowledge of and appreciation about the written word -- its flow, its playfulness, its rhythm. No, it's not a baby book, and am glad it's not!
February 5, 2024
ARC from Netgalley.
April 22, 2024
A poetic story about two young boys who dream of the freedom of summer. This book is a great way to get young imaginations soaring.
July 2, 2024
Beautifully illustrated picture book about imagination – and french fry loving seagulls – on a hot summer day.
October 6, 2024
It is a poem turned into a picture book. It is an excellent poem that clearly shows the magic of family, brothers, and childhood imagination.
February 5, 2025
8 yo review: “great Art, but no one knows how the story goes, so it’s kind of dumb.”
March 31, 2025
3 stars
I think this book is about 2 kids who get gulls to take their car to a beach
I think this book is about 2 kids who get gulls to take their car to a beach
September 14, 2025
Great story. I loved the pictures and story. The boys have a great imagination. - Miles, 8 years old.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews