I won a few galley’s through the US Book Show Grab a Galley Giveaway. So, I have some books already on my to-review list. The first is Adrift by Heidi E.Y. Stemple, illustrated by Anastasia Suvorova. Buy it on Amazon (affiliate) or Bookshop or a bookstore near you.
Finding himself alone and scared in the middle of a storm, a small mouse finds comfort and strength when he sees another boat and is joined by others. They ride out the storm together―close enough to see each other, but not close enough to crash.
Amazon Book Blurb
My Reader Thoughts:
Suvorova’s illustrations are absolutely beautiful. I love picture books with really nuanced color schemes, and this one definitely meets that description. And the story itself is also lovely. A quiet, thoughtful read. Younger children will enjoy the illustrations; older children can really benefit from the story’s message.
My Writer Thoughts:
The story flows well and I really like how it ends. I can see myself in Little Mouse and I’m so glad his journey ends as it does. The word count is similar to my own manuscripts, which is helpful to see. This story feels more lyrical than my own, though, which is something to consider when revising my manuscripts.
My Teacher Thoughts:
Definitely a picture book I would assign in my college courses. The plot structure works well for a literary analysis discussion and an analysis of the text’s visual semiotics would also make for a great lesson. The metaphorical nature of the story can also lead to a good discussion.
More Information:
Illustrator: Anastasia Suvorova
Release Date: October 26, 2021
Publisher: Crocodile Books
Reading Age: 3-12
Overall Stars: 5/5
They weren’t together, but they weren’t alone.
Adrift, Heidi E.Y. Stemple
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