Publishers Weekly gave the book a starred review and praised the technique utilized by Tabor for the illustrations, commenting how they are "alive with wonderful textures and soft colors."[1] Kirkus Reviews noted that the story, about a kingfisher plummeting towards the water below her, has a vertical format that "prompts readers to look longitudinally at each spread," which "inspires both excitement and anxiety."[2] They concluded by saying the book could inspire young readers "to feel brave, to try, and to believe they can soar."[2]
Kate Quealy-Gainer, writing for the Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books, commented on the book's narration, which they considered to be "lively," and the illustrations, which "confer buoyant energy."[3] Julie Danielson, for The Horn Book Magazine, called Mel Fell a "playful and innovatively designed book" and added that having to turn the book to read it makes the story "even more dramatic."[4]
Mel Fell was chosen by the American Library Association as one of its "Notable Children's Books" of 2021[5] and was also the recipient of a Caldecott Honor.[6]
In 2022, the Weston Woods Studios released a 7 minute long animated film adaptation, narrated by Noah Wall with animation by Galen Fott.[7][8]
.jpg)
