Umbrella House

An author and elementary school teacher, Colleen Nelson earned her Bachelor of Education from the University of Manitoba in her hometown of Winnipeg. Her previous novels include the critically acclaimed Harvey Comes Home, Sadia, winner of the 2019 Ruth and Sylvia Schwartz Award, and Blood Brothers, selected as the 2018 McNally Robinson Book of the Year for Young People. Colleen writes daily in between appearances at hockey rinks and soccer fields in support of her two sports-loving sons.

Praise for The Umbrella House2024 TD Canadian Children’s Literature Award Finalist  2023 Junior Library Guild Selection2025 NYSRA Charlotte Award Nominee – Middle Grade 2024 High Plains Book Award Finalist - Young Reader/Middle Grade2024 Forest of Reading - Silver Birch Nominee 2023 Indigo Top 50 Best Kids’ Books of the Year Selection2024 Bank Street College of Education “Best Children’s Books of the Year” Selection 2024 SYRCA Diamond Willow Award Finalist Ontario Library Association’s 2023 Best Bets Selection2023 School Library Journal “These Protagonists Take Action | Read Woke” FeatureFall 2023 CCBC Best Books for Kids and Teens ★ Starred Selection 49th Shelf “Most Anticipated: Our Spring 2023 Books for Young Readers Preview” FeatureThe Children’s Book Council “Summer 2024 Imagination Celebration” Feature The Children’s Book Council “Hot Off the Press: June 2023” Feature“Blending fact, fiction, social issues, and friendship, this novel ably highlights young people’s strengths….An uplifting account of creative kids working to preserve a city landmark.”—Kirkus Reviews“Nelson, who has lived in New York, creates a cast of interesting characters with Umbrella House (a real place with a colorful history) and its neighborhood as the setting. A well-paced story with a satisfying conclusion.”—Booklist“Nelson’s novel both commends activists’ can-do spirit and emphasizes the heights to which one can go when backed by unwavering communal support.”—Publishers Weekly“A contemporary story based on the real-life Umbrella House in New York City, Nelson offers readers a strongly written and beautifully heartening novel, rich with a wide cast of appealing characters.”—Quill & Quire“[A] dynamic story of tenacity–a fight for justice and compassion around housing and the politics of who deserves to be housed. Colleen manages to create some mystery and angst, which all contribute to the fast-paced, plot-driven narrative….This book should not be missed.”—Youth Services Book Review“[A] fast paced read that is both enjoyable and encouraging. With a little mystery, a lot of love, some endearing characters, a portrait of a traditional part of New York and a triumph of community over greed The Umbrella House will appeal to children aged 8-12. Highly Recommended”—Canadian Materials“The Umbrella House will be a good choice for readers who enjoyed Dilloway's Five Things About Ava Andrews, Giles' Take Back the Block, Watson's This Side of Home, or Broaddus' Unfadeable.”—YA Books Central“[A] wonderful new novel for middle graders to sink their teeth into. I really enjoyed reading this engaging story….An enjoyable read that is well written.”—The International Educator“This book discusses the topic of gentrification from a child’s perspective....Readers will enjoy reading about Roxy and Scout and their friendship as they navigate ups and downs in their relationship....The book would also pair well with learning about the history of New York City and the variety of different neighborhoods in the city.”—CLCD – Children's Literature“I loved the sounds of East Village: it seemed like a real neighbourhood where people look out for each and where shop local is a real thing. The characters were electric, their stories unique and there were lots of things going on.”—Book Time“An ode to community activism and the East Village in New York City…It is a beautiful story that will engage readers and leave them yearning for a trip to NYC to see the Umbrella House for themselves. Also, a huge shout out to the incredible Peggy Collins for her BEAUTIFUL cover illustrations. The book simply pops.”—Storytime With Stephanie“The Umbrella House is a fun and empowering story!”—Jill's Book Blog