Melissa Castrillón

With illustrations, which dance on the edge of fantasy, this read radiates joy on every page.

This book heads in a poetic direction with a simple, verse flow which packs deeper meanings and positive vibes. Just enough of each verse repeats itself to quickly gain familiarity with young listeners, while the rest takes meaningful terms (hope, love, bravery, etc.) and gives them thoughtful twists. The younger end of the intended age group most likely won't entirely grasp or appreciate the meanings of each phrase, but the older readers will be able to work through them to get food for thought and even open up to lighter discussions. For both, it makes a gentle and enjoyable read.

The illustrations allow for unique color contrasts, which when combined with the playful style, take familiar scenes and give them an almost fantastical touch. It invites to dream, while spinning familiar settings and situations, which readers/listeners can identify with. The calming and positive atmosphere gives it a relaxing touch, which is wonderful for those quieter moments. It's also an enjoyable way to subtly introduce literary devices and poetry. I received a DRC an enjoyed the uplifting message and playful images.… (more)

First of all, you need to view the book's boards. Either take the dust jacket off or, if you have a library copy with a mylar cover, open the book carefully so the jacket gaps away from the book to allow you to peek the boards. They're a plant green linen foil-stamped with a somewhat different image than the dust jacket. Gorgeous.

As for the rest of the book...

The illustrations appear to have been done in colored pencil, although the art note at the end specifies that they were rendered in pencil but colored digtally. Pretty good digital work; it looks just like colored pencil lines. Castrillón employs a more limited color palette post-move (in the city) than pre-move, at least until the plants start blooming, at which point the yellows and greens and oranges reappear. The palette is subdued again when depicting any neighbors who have not yet started growing plants / experiencing the joy of the plants.

The arrangement of the vignettes within the spreads will help teach kids sequential literacy.

The book is mostly wordless. The few words it does include are more decorative or descriptive than essential to the story, although they enhance your understanding of the story. Kids who don't read yet (or don't read English) will still have a good understanding of what the words mean or are saying.… (more)