Out Now: Searching for Mr. Johnson's Song, illustrated by Jade Orlando

Illustrated by Jade Orlando and written by Ariel Vanece, this book is a touching story of the friendship between a young boy and his elderly neighbor, and how that boy helps jog the man’s disappearing memory

Caius spends summer mornings on his neighbor’s porch, and although Mr. Johnson doesn’t remember things as well as he used to, he can always sing the beginning of his favorite song, “Further Along.” Caius understands how nourishing music can be, and so he decides to find the rest of Mr. Johnson’s song. At the library he inspects shelves of hymnals and listens to recordings of protest tunes, but none of these is the one Mr. Johnson sings. How will he help his neighbor?

Exuding warmth, this story displays kindness and neighborliness, and portrays dementia with gentle authenticity.

Searching for Mr. Johnson’s Song was published by Penguin US on October 24th, 2025. Get your copy here!

“Orlando’s warm illustrations deepen both the hymn and the story, layering emotional texture with historical detail and a vivid sense of the present. Vanece’s prose demonstrates how a child’s unprompted empathy and support for an older neighbor can make a meaningful difference in both of their lives. Also commendable is how the story quietly reflects the reality of many children’s lives by depicting a nontraditional family structure without making it a point of conflict or focus. A tender portrayal of a child’s bond with an elderly neighbor.” —Kirkus

“Intergenerational stories can be a gift, and this is one of those books. It creates a comforting bubble—one where neighbors look after each other, where communities exist to help, and where the lines connecting everyone are crystal clear. The folksy art complements that tender touch, showing the warmth of sepia toned ancient memories and the lush bloom of the recent past. Through it all, music intertwines with story like vegetation, showing the growth and nourishment of an art form. A powerful tale that demonstrates the connective power of music and memory, as well as an appreciation for the strength of tradition passed through generations.” —School Library Journal

---

To work with Jade, get in contact with her agent Anne Moore Armstrong here.