Description
One of the Globe and Mail's 10 Best Children's Books of 2025
"If you want a picture book that speaks to what is going on in the world right now, Ra! Ta! Ma! Cue! is the title you want to consider."—Betsy Bird, Fuse #8, School Library Journal
“Innovation that deserves a standing ovation.”—STARRED review, Kirkus Reviews
A unique picture book adventure for music lovers of all ages about how to never be quiet, never give up, and never underestimate the power of percussion.
Months have passed since the Grown-Ups were taken captive, forced to brush the teeth and scratch the backs of the Growlies. One day the children make a decision: Ratamacue! It means “no more waiting.” It means it’s time for a rescue mission! They set off on a wild and uncertain journey, forming a drumline to overcome the many obstacles in their way. In the end, the Growlies’ meanness is no match for the children’s magic: their collective music.
Ra! Ta! Ma! Cue! celebrates the power of kids accomplishing remarkable feats, even when up against seemingly undefeatable odds—especially when they are underestimated. With stunning illustrations and a distinctive blend of picture book and graphic musical score reminiscent of John Cage, this exciting book will inspire kids and adults alike.
An instant classic of bravery, courage, and persistence that empowers kids to pick up a drum and make some noise!
Author Bio
HOWIE SHIA is an illustrator, writer, and animation director. He has worked with Disney, Netflix, and the National Film Board of Canada. He lives in Toronto, Canada, with his most excellent wife, two kindly children, too many books, and not enough drums.
Prizes
- Alcuin Society Awards for Excellence in Book DesignRunner-up 2025
- 10 best kids books of 2025, The Globe and MailJoint winner 2025
- OLA Best BetsCommended 2025
- TD Summer Reading ClubCommended 2026
- Elizabeth Mrazik-Cleaver Picture Book AwardWinner 2025
Review Quotes
“The dynamic panels have a rhythm of their own, all culminating in a truly stunning ending . . . Innovation that deserves a standing ovation.”
“Many picture books celebrate music, but few are as cinematic and empowering as this one.”
“A drum pattern becomes the hope-inspiring rallying cry of fearless children in Shia’s adventuring comic.”
— Publishers Weekly, 09/18/25“A delightfully unconventional picture book that mixes Maurice Sendak’s rumpusing Wild Things with a percussive musicality.”
— The Globe and Mail, The 10 best kids books of 2025“This wonderfully unconventional picture book combines the adventure and danger of WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE with the percussive force of the former Broadway show STOMP.”
“[A] fun opportunity for students to research and practice evaluating information . . . Enchanting, lightly shaded watercolor-and-colored-pencil illustrations add levity to this important topic.”
“If you want a picture book that speaks to what is going on in the world right now, RA! TA! MA! CUE! is the title you want to consider.”
“If avant-garde composer John Cage made a picture book, it might be a little like this.”
