Skeleanor the Decomposer

Ages 6 to 9, Grades 1 to 4

An instantly charming and vivid chapter-book graphic novel, starring a music-obsessed skeleton, Skeleanor, and her quest to find her sound (and her confidence) by debut creator Emily Ettlinger.

Skeleanor loves music more than life itself. There’s just one problem: She has a bit more rattle than rhythm at the moment. No matter what type of instrument she plays—from the fiddle to the xylobone—she always seems to scare the people of Little Casketon away. But with the Little Casketon Summershine festival coming up, and the town band missing a player, maybe Skeleanor (along with the help of her best friend, Batima) could show people her skills and finally take center stage.

Hilarious and heartfelt, Skeleanor the Decomposer by debut author and illustrator Emily Ettlinger is a story about chasing your passions no matter what other people say. Sometimes, all you need is a dream, your friends, and a little music.

About the Author

Emily Ettlinger (she/her) is a cartoonist and illustrator from almost-DC, Maryland. When she’s not drawing, you can find her working on one of an infinite number of sewing, furniture, or toy-making projects. Like Skeleanor, she enjoys scampering around and yelling. Skeleanor the Decomposer is her debut graphic novel.

Author Residence: Baltimore, Maryland

Author Hometown: Baltimore, Maryland