Total Pageviews

Thursday, October 18, 2018

Mia Moves Out, written by Miranda Paul and illustrated by Paige Keiser. Alfred A Knopf, Random House. 2018. $22.99 ages 3 and up

"The room became
half as big,
and half as bright,
but it also became
TWICE as fun!

"Sharing isn't so bad,"
Mia said.
Then birthdays happened.
Holidays happened.
Growing happened."

Mia is welcomed into her new family with a room of her own, and allowed to give it a personal touch by adding things 'big', 'bright' and 'fun'. Perfect and hers alone ... until Brandon arrives. A baby brother adds some constraints, there is no doubt. The room seems smaller, and often dimmer.

It is all well and good until Brandon starts growing, having birthdays and adding his stuff to 'their' space. There is so much cleaning to do. It's too much! Mia comes up with a natural solution to the dilemma:

"I'm moving out!"

Moving is a grand idea; there are difficulties. Where will she find space for herself? Each new spot chosen seems right at the onset. Each presents a problem. When the final choice seems exactly right, she is content ... not for long! Something's missing.

Readers are sure to enjoy the warm, charming watercolor illustrations that depict the changing family, and its growth from two to four people. They will appreciate the many humorous details, and are sure to recognize on the book's pages much that is familiar to them.

Ah, siblings! Anyone would tell you that life with them can be exhausting. On the other hand, what would we do without them? Choosing to 'move out' is a ritual of childhood and growth, isn't it? Mia and Brandon make the best of their choice.

1 comment: