"So Frances visits her
cousins in the country,
where hay is for hiding.
And cats are for catching.
And roads are for racing down."
Frances is a kid who lives in the city; she is not sure it is the right place for her. She can't run in the house. Everywhere she goes, there are too many people and not enough space. There are constant rules for behavior and always worries about safety.
A visit to her country cousins helps Frances experience a much happier place for her to be. She can hide in the hay, run down long, quiet roads, and bask in the joy of free play. It is very different from her life in the bustling urban landscape that is her home. It's hard for Frances when the time comes for her to return home.
"The lake says Look!
The horse says Hush.
And the cousins say
Come back soon."
The parallel stories created to give readers a glimpse at both places are engaging and telling. When it is time to leave Frances knows that a return visit is always possible. It makes the leaving easier. Waving goodbye, she reminds her cousins that they have an open invitation to visit her at her home in the city. She knows there will be much for them to enjoy there. Being away has made her aware of the familiar and special things she has missed while she has been away. Besides that, she has missed her mama and her sisters! That feeling is mutual. She has been missed.
Sean Qualls contrasts the rural and urban landscapes using acrylic paint, collage, and pencil. While showing the joy felt in the freedom of country, he also makes city life shine when Frances returns with a renewed gratitude for the life she has with her family there.
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