I'm Sorry You Got Mad

Kyle Lukoff is the author of many books for young readers. His debut middle-grade novel, Too Bright To See, received a Newbery honor, the Stonewall award, and was a National Book Award finalist. His picture book When Aidan Became a Brother also won the Stonewall. He has forthcoming books about mermaids, babies, apologies, and lots of other topics. While becoming a writer he worked as a bookseller for ten years, and then nine more years as a school librarian.​Julie Kwon is an artist and illustrator based in Queens. A graduate of the Brown/RISD Dual-Degree program, her work is heavily inspired by the steady diet of manga, comics, and young adult novels she consumed growing up, as well as her many fond childhood memories. In her spare time, Julie enjoys reading, petting dogs, knitting and going on long walks with friends.

★5 STARRED REVIEWS ★NPR Books We Love 2024 PickKirkus Best Books of the YearSLJ Best Books of the YearNew York Public Library Best Books of 2024Chicago Public Library Best of the BestALSC 2025 Children's Notable List Book2026 Bill Martin Jr. Picture Book Award NomineeCLA/NCTE 2025 Notable Children's Book in the Language Arts2025 CBC Favorites Award Top Ten Title13 State Award Lists★ “A master class in apologies and in storytelling through words and art." —Kirkus Reviews, starred review★ “Smartly told…Lukoff models good behavior for kids (and, let’s face it, adults) without being lecturing or preachy. A must-have." —School Library Journal, starred review★ “[A] witty epistolary classroom drama… [A] sparkling examination of messy feelings and meaningful apologies.” —Publishers Weekly, starred review★ “Lukoff brings an enormous sense of compassion to a lesson that even adults can struggle with.” —BCCB, starred review★ “An incredible conversation starter… I’m Sorry You Got Mad goes a long way in teaching children the different ways an apology can sound, the ways it can fall flat, and the ways we can repair and restore beloved friendships. Julie Kwon’s expressive character illustrations will help readers identify the difference between anger, regret and remorse.” –BookPage, starred review “A layered, diversely cast children’ book about how to apologize properly is a must-read for kids of all ages.” –People Magazine“Young readers will readily relate to Lukoff’s theme, while Kwon’s illustrations add a nice comic touch.” – The Washington Post