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Thursday, June 29, 2023

all the beating hearts, written by julie fogliano and illustrated by catia chien. Neal Porter Books, Holiday House. Penguin Random House, 2023. $24.99 ages 3 and up

 


"and the night will always come too
and then we will 
find our sleeping place 
and maybe we will read 
or sing
before we close our eyes
and drift  
into a dream 

(hopefully a good one
but sometimes not)
"

Heartfelt, hopeful words, meticulously chosen to explore wonder, are placed on double-page spreads created using pastels and colored pencils. The author takes readers through a day, getting up when the sun rises and returning to sleep as the moon does the same. Many experiences through that day will unite us. 

The gorgeous spreads reflect variety in settings and diversity in humans. The images show people enjoying being happy together, while also recognizing loneliness and hurt. They quietly match the time and the routines of the day. Parents and children wrap each other in love and kindness, caring for the young and for aging parents. Positive and uplifting, the book shows how important it is to spend time together and to recognize the wonder of the world around us.  

Throughout the day, there are both lucky chances and challenges to test us. They will not be the same for everyone. Connections make us stronger and remind that we are not alone. When the day's noise quiets, heartbeats can be heard to remind us that we are all here, the same but different, and that is enough.  

Tender and full of feeling, this is a book that invites quiet wonder and careful consideration. 

 “a reminder
that we are here
and alive 
together but apart
the same, but exactly different.” 

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