Lint Boy

Lint Boy is a graphic novel in which the main character (a humanoid ball of lint) tries to save his brother (a bear also made of lint) and others (including lone socks) from an old woman who despises and tortures dolls because she wants them to admit they are alive. Even though they are sort of strange characters, I started to care about them when they told their stories of how the old woman had hurt them.

The world in which the story takes place and the illustrations reminded me of the movie Coraline. The pen-and-watercolor illustrations are muted and would appeal to older kids. I think kids under six would likely find the story too creepy as the old woman cuts off the dolls’ hair and sticks pins in their heads, but it does have an unexpected happy ending.

I’m not sure why the author wrote the book other than to say something about the importance of friendship and perseverance. Lint Boy never gives up on finding and saving Lint Bear, even when the other dolls have given up all hope of escape. It’s a quick read, but I’m still wondering why the old woman puts Lint Boy in a pinstriped suit and why she’s so rough with the dolls?