An Hryvtsova’s glittering, gleaming illustrations offer young readers a forest with a warm, vibrant mystique that transforms into a sanctuary for fancy and imagination. Eva’s world sparkles, and every sunbeam is a pathway to revealing something thrilling for her to investigate. Hryvtsova takes care with the intricate details, too, from elaborately drawn water lilies to textured streamside boulders to Grandpa Pat and Eva’s evocative facial expressions, deftly conjuring a world from the pure perspective of a young child, where magic still exists and every shimmer and shadow are worthy of examination.
Younger readers will relish the opportunity to share what they see hidden in Miller’s mind-boggling world, whether it’s Eva’s shark “playing in a brook,” a “giant ball” in the trees, or a creature of their own concoction. Grandpa Pat’s continual stoking of his granddaughter’s excitement is the driving force behind this charming debut, as he intuitively recognizes Eva’s inquisitive nature for what it is—a gift—and chooses to adopt her attitude of fascination. That loving choice nets Grandpa Pat a once-in-a-lifetime experience with Eva at the story’s conclusion. This is the perfect choice for fans of childhood wonder.
Takeaway: Vibrant, joyful celebration of youthful curiosity.
Comparable Titles: Bernard Waber’s Ask Me, Joseph Kuefler’s Beyond the Pond.
Production grades
Cover: A
Design and typography: A
Illustrations: A
Editing: B+
Marketing copy: A
