The Inactivity Book

Hardcover

Grades Preschool – 3
Ages 4–8

From the author of the Caldecott Honor-winning NOODLES ON A BICYCLE comes a poetic celebration of doing... not much at all.

Have you ever felt like becoming a perch for passing birds? Or curling into the corneriest corner you can find? Maybe you’ve imagined yourself as a sleepy monument or even a sea sponge at the bottom of the ocean. If you have, then you’re ready to discover the magic of doing nothing at all.

Told in Kyo Maclear’s signature lyrical voice, and with Tracy Subisak’s whimsical illustrations, here is a funny ode to the lost art of loafing. In a world that often celebrates productivity, this picture book reminds us of the quiet, necessary joy of simply being. It’s perfect for idlers of all ages—because who doesn’t need a little inactivity now and then?

★ "The prose has a refreshing directness, whether it’s playful, irreverent or quietly philosophical. Focused around paying attention and playing along, this singular slow-down book models how doing nothing can feel utterly worthwhile." —Publishers Weekly, starred review

"Gratifying permission to pause and dwell in the ’very quiet quiet.’" —Kirkus Reviews

"Maclear offers playful ways of slowing down the body and mind, resulting in a thoughtful, refreshing celebration of rest and renewal." —The Horn Book

"A gentle celebration of slowing down....This charming picture book reminds readers that rest can be meaningful too, which is an important message for anyone to receive but especially children." —Booklist

ISBN 9780593181980 (Hardcover)
Published on Sep 22, 2026
Published by Random House Studio
Pages 48
Dimensions 9 x 11
Age Range 4-8 years
Grade Preschool - 3

ISBN 9780593181997 (Hardcover Library Binding)
Published on Sep 22, 2026
Published by Random House Studio
Pages 48
Dimensions 9 x 11
Age Range 4-8 years
Grade Preschool - 3

ISBN 9780593182000 (Ebook)
Published on Sep 22, 2026
Published by Random House Studio
Pages 48
Age Range 4-8 years
Grade Preschool - 3

ISBN 9798217352739 (Audiobook Download)
Published on Sep 22, 2026
Published by Listening Library
Age Range 4-8 years
Grade Preschool - 3

Kyo Maclear

KYO MACLEAR is an award-winning novelist, essayist, and children’s author. Her books have been translated into eighteen languages and published in over twenty-five countries. She is the author of the hybrid memoir Birds Art Life (2017), winner of the Trillium Book Award. Kyo holds a doctorate in environmental humanities and is on faculty at the University of Guelph Creative Writing MFA.

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