"This book doesn't offer solutions on how we
might fix this devastating national crisis, but
it shows readers that it's a problem that affects
so many of us."
There is such beauty in this story told with no words. None are needed. James Ransome has created a story that will live long in the memory of those who share it. It begins with a note from the author:
"My hope is that this book sparks readers to ask: in a country of vast resources, what is our responsibility to those without access to the basic necessities?"
Young children will see this story of a mother and son and the love they have for each other. School is done for the day, and Mama arrives to meet him as he says goodbye to a friend. Happy to see each other, they chat together as they head toward a nearby fast-food restaurant for dinner. Following that, as darkness begins to set in, they make their way through busy streets to the library where both work on homework and reading. As the librarian flashes the lights to let them know the library will soon close, they pack their bags and head out into the darkness.
The glow of a streetlight and a quiet pathway lead them a park bench, where they sit and talk together. It isn't long until the boy tucks up under his mama's sweater and lays his head on her knee. Quiet animals look on from the darkness: an owl, a fox and a raccoon. Mama keeps a quiet watch over her son as he gets the rest he needs for school tomorrow. Once awake, he finds a clean shirt in her bag, and prepares for the new day. The two return to school, where they wave a warm goodbye before parting.
Wonderful mixed-media illustrations fill the book's pages with the poignancy of their homeless life, while also brimming with the love the two share. Though life is not easy, they have joyful moments when they are together. Sharing the book with an older audience will surely encourage discussion and further learning about what can be done to help those who need the help that this family (and so mnay others) deserves.
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