“In crisp, colorful, emotion-rich paintings, Brian Lies chronicles the hollow depths of bereavement and the eventual rekindling of love.” — Wall Street Journal

“Spare and beautifully phrased...Lies’s rich colors and expressive use of light are evident throughout this picture book, which acknowledges grief and delivers a hopeful message with subtlety, empathy and eloquence.” — Booklist (starred review)

“The polished, jaunty spreads that open this story by Lies give little hint of the deep emotion to come. ...The story of how Evan finds his way through his grief rings true, and Lies’s atmospherically lit, exquisitely drafted paintings will absorb readers as they trace Evan’s journey through mourning.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review)

“The story is simply and subtly told with admirably genuine emotion, but the textured, strong-hued art is the real standout. Charming images...are to savor. ...Reassuring and clear, this is a heartfelt story about loss and discovering that one can love again.” — Kirkus Reviews

“With tender restraint, author and illustrator Brian Lies has crafted a deeply felt story of new hope and healing after loss...The pacing is flawless, and the emotions are never forced. ...Understated yet powerful, The Rough Patch is a story that stays with you.” — BookPage

“Grief is the watchword—though it’s never stated—in The Rough Patch, a weepy and wonderful picture book by Brian Lies. ...As Evan’s sorrow turns to rage and then destruction, the reader watches with distress and then with rising hope as the garden, with time, offers the grief-stricken fox a way back to happiness.” — Wall Street Journal