Over The Shop, story by JonArno Lawson and illustrated by Qin Leng. Candlewick Press, Penguin Random House. 2021. $22.99 ages 4 and up

 

APARTMENT FOR RENT. 
INQUIRE WITHIN.

Once 'read', you will hold this memorable story of love and family in your heart for a long time. It speaks the truth to what family can be. The opening pages show a young child waking, getting ready for the day, and scooting to the breakfast table. The food is prepared, the table set by a seemingly agitated grandparent who is in a rush to eat and open the store that fronts the apartment where the two live. 

Boxes of produce are placed outside the front door as a neighbor looks on. A passing cat tries to swipe food from one of the open boxes, and is quickly chased away. The child takes note of the cat hurrying past the kitchen window, and brings a bowl of tuna to the alley. Then, child and grandparent get to their business of the day; one drawing, the other making a 'for rent' sign for the upstairs apartment. Business has not been brisk. Rental income will be welcome. The sign does attract the attention of many passers-by; none are impressed with the dismal condition of the available living quarters. The sign is being removed as a young couple arrives showing interest. They agree to rent the apartment, move in quickly and begin the arduous backbreaking work of making it habitable. The child helps as much as possible. As their work transforms the entire building, the two also join in helping run the store. Initial doubtful impressions are set aside by the grandparent and their neighbor.  A new family of four (and a cat) is born. 

Qin Leng's ink and watercolor illustrations brilliantly tell this wordless tale, with heart and great warmth. The ever-changing panels and perspectives ensure that every action adds to the story's arc. Readers will pore over the details and be keen to share this story with others. Pride colors, worn in a belt and a hat, and then shown in a flag that flies on the storefront hint at gender diversity. 

JonArno Lawson dedicates this exemplary story 'for trans activists of all ages'. Does it matter that three (perhaps four) of the book's main characters are not defined by their gender? I think not.