"One day, Dad says,
"Sweetie, I'm sorry
I can't go skating with
you."
"Don't worry, Dad,"
I tell him.
"Ice fishing together
is more fun."
In her debut book, Nari Hong shares stories from her childhood concerning her relationship with her dad. By making her audience immediately aware that her father is unable to walk, she sets the stage for the many wonderful experiences they can share. Although he is often apologetic for the things he is unable to do with his daughter because his legs don't work, his heart works overtime. He forgoes one thing by replacing it with something equally enjoyable.
As she tells her story, Ms. Hong uses gentle repetitive language, allowing readers to understand she does not feel any regret for those things they can't do together; rather, she loves what they can.
'One day, Dad tells me,
"I'm sorry I can't play soccer with you."
"So what?" I say.
"What I really love is singing
along with your ukulele."
At every turn, the two are is sync for the way they spend their time together. The child is totally accepting of the things her father cannot do, and perfectly content with the many things he can!
In warm colored-pencil artwork, done with childlike emotion, she grants her readers understanding for the joy she feels just being with her father, no matter how they spend their time. Though the wheelchair is rarely seen, readers are always aware of the father's immobility. This does not downplay his ability to bring joy and happiness to his little girl. Endpapers match the jacket her father wears in our official meeting with him, and then again later. A lovely touch!
Assured and cheery, readers will know the love and respect the two have for each other. It's a perfect way to begin a conversation with little ones concerning the things they like to do with their parents and family.
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