This is a cozy book. It has cozy illustrations with warm colors but at the same time are cool to the eye. It has cozy words that tell a memory and cozy words that tell about the here and now as well. The best part is the family is a biracial family. However, it is not “in your face” as it is “just there” as “normal.” Yet the traditional nuclear family is there. Natalie Reif Ziarnik has created a lovely, cozy book that is perfect for bedtime. Even if it is not a bedtime that happens after a day at the beach.
A Lullaby of Summer Things just tells a story of a young girl’s memory of the day at the beach and the way she has to come back to reality after the day of fun. Sights and sounds of the day ending are mixed in with the memories.
Madeline Valentine’s art is sweet. They are happy images and even though the little girl is sad she cannot stay at the beach, she is happy to be home with her family and finally snuggled into her bed. The colors are perfect for the story and the feeling of a family of tired beach-warn adventures! Valentines’ signature style (Teddy’s Favorite Toy) is present. Her wide-eyed and innocent look is perfect for the toddler set.
And while I do enjoy this book in the hardcover format, I do think this will make a lovely lap-sized board book as well. Perfect for home of preschool libraries.
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