Review by School Library Journal Review
PreS-Gr 2--The day is a stinker from the start for two young friends--a boy with brown skin and black hair and a girl with light skin and red hair--who can't seem to get things back on course. Eating cereal on the back of the couch, cutting an unwitting family member's hair, writing on walls, and pushing each other are just a few of the poor choices the children make. Destructive decisions abound, and the negativity compounds until it feels almost insurmountable, with the day ending in bedtime tears. The next morning's sunrise brings the promise of a fresh beginning, and with it the kids are able to make amends for their unruly behavior. Adventures aplenty are headed their way, and they both are assured that they are loved no matter what. Deliberate word choice and acute phrasing describe emotions metaphorically so that young readers can easily understand them. To describe resilience, Bell writes, "And good or bad, the things you do, are all a part of being you--of learning how to take your boat, on stormy seas and stay afloat." The digitally rendered illustrations are ripe with action, detail, and jubilant color. The very bright--almost neon--tones are sometimes at odds with the gravity of what is being conveyed in the story, but overall provide relief for the otherwise serious subject. VERDICT Truly compelling books about feelings are difficult to come by and this one will be sought after by adults in need of articulating what has happened as well as comforting their little ones after a rough day. A recommended purchase for most picture book collections.--Sarah Simpson
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