No More Chairs
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Dan Gill is a debut children’s book author and a lifelong educator who spent over fifty years teaching social studies at Glenfield Middle School in Montclair, New Jersey. A passionate storyteller and advocate for empathy, Dan lives in New Jersey with his family.
No More Chairs is his first picture book, inspired by a powerful experience from his own childhood. For years, Dan shared this true story with his students in the days leading up to Martin Luther King Jr. Day, hoping to help them better understand Dr. King's message through a personal lens.
With the publication of No More Chairs, Dan invites readers of all ages to reflect on the meaning of allyship, inclusion, and compassion. He hopes the story will encourage families to share their own moments of courage and kindness—and to inspire children to create stories of their own. As Dan says, "May you have a chair in your heart for anyone who comes knocking at your door filled with anticipation."
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No More Chairs
From art to science, history to math, there are so many things to learn at school! But Mr. Gill’s students are most interested in learning about the empty chair that sits in the front of their classroom. He tells them a story from his childhood about his Black best friend, Archie, the racism they experienced at a classmate's birthday party, when Archie was told there wasn't a chair for him, and how it inspired Mr. Gill to prioritize inclusivity and love.
In this true story of bravery and belonging from longtime elementary school teacher Dan Gill and gorgeously illustrated by Susan Gal, readers will learn to always keep an extra chair in their home and in their hearts.
On Shelves July 1, 2025
Reviews
“Gill draws from his own childhood in this affecting dual-timeline story about acceptance….Gal’s digitally assembled pencil, ink, and watercolor illustrations layer scribbly lines to envisage a radiant, rainbow-hued kaleidoscopic style that supports the book’s thematic thrust.”― Publisher's Weekly, starred review
“On the first day of school, Mr. Gill’s students ask about the empty chair in his classroom.
In response, Mr. Gill, a white man, tells a story from his childhood in New York City. Mr. Gill (referred to here as Daniel) and his friend Archie, who is Black, are excited to attend their friend Steve’s birthday party. Dressed in suits and ties, they arrive at Steve’s fancy apartment building, ride the elevator up to the seventh floor, and ring the doorbell. Steve’s mother invites Daniel in but tells Archie that he must leave; there are no more chairs. When it becomes clear that Archie isn’t welcome because of his race, Daniel refuses to enter: “We’re going back to my house, where there are always enough chairs.” The chair in Mr. Gill’s classroom serves as a reminder that there’s room for everyone here. The author—who shares a name with the protagonist—based his tale on an event from his own childhood. Acknowledging that there are times when it isn’t safe for those from marginalized backgrounds to speak up, this potent story reminds those with privilege that they can—indeed, must—take a stand. For powerful discussions, pair this heartfelt friendship story with narratives of brave Black characters. Gal’s scribbly mixed-media illustrations are a visual feast, using richly saturated colors to emphasize emotion.
An affecting and moving conversation starter on what it means to be an ally—and a friend.”― Kirkus, starred review
Question of the Day
The One That Got Away
Sept 18, 2016
The One That Got Away follows middle school teacher, Dan Gill, as he reconnects with his once promising student, Tourrie Moses, who is now serving 15 years for murder in a New Jersey state prison. Filmed over the course of three years by Emmy Award-winners John Block and Steve McCarthy, the film examines the relevant issues of teaching, familial and communal responsibility, and at-risk children.