The House

3.7

0.0 (0)

99 0

Write Review Add to favorites

Author(s)

Alberto (NiñoCactus) Martín

Co-Authors / Illustrators

Celia Sacido

Publisher Name

Cuento de Luz

Genre(s)

Age Range

Release Date

May 05, 2026

ISBN13

978-8410438156

ISBN10 or ASIN

The house knew many things, but it had to learn them all again…

A house provides shelter and becomes a protector for a family who, day after day, fill its corners with laughter, love, and memories. Its walls are covered with warmth and become a true home. The house becomes another inhabitant.

Until one day... A fire destroys everything that the house believed gave meaning to its life. It stands silent, empty. And, despite everything it has experienced, full of doubts that will make it forget what it never ceased to be.

A story that reminds us of the power of words and self-esteem to heal.

A message of hope where the passage of time will give us the strength we need to face adversity.

With beautiful illustrations combining mixed media techniques of pencil, gouache, and collage, a poetic text is brought to life amid scenes where nature itself blossoms, sheltering animals, plants, and flowers.

A beautiful and magical picture book that will delight readers of all ages, showing them that the light of hope will always shine through the ashes and cracks.

Editor review

1 review

Tale of Resilience

May 23, 2026 (Updated: June 23, 2026)

Overall rating

3.7

Plot

3.0

Characters

N/A

Writing Style

3.0

Illustrations/Photos (if applicable)

5.0

The House by Alberto Martín (NiñoCactus) and illustrated by Celia Sacido is a gentle, quiet children’s picture book that explores themes of home, loss, and rebirth.

The story centers on a personified house that provides shelter to a loving family until a sudden disaster forces them away, leaving the structure empty and forgotten.

Celia Sacido’s arresting mixed-media and watercolor illustrations are by far my favofrite part of this book. The artwork beautifully transitions from vibrant, warm tones to stark, muted palettes, effectively conveying the house's changing emotions and its eventual, peaceful integration into the surrounding natural world.

While the book functions wonderfully as a contemplative art piece, it stumbles a bit when it comes to keeping younger readers engaged. Alberto Martín’s text is highly poetic and sparse, which sets a beautiful, meditative tone but lacks a compelling narrative hook or dynamic pacing to hold a child's attention during a read-aloud session.
I fear the concept of a sentient house dealing with trauma and existential doubt feels a bit too abstract for the target age range.

The House would make a lovely addition to a library looking for quiet, thoughtful international imports, but it falls just short of being an essential household staple.