A poetic and visual masterpiece, perfect for introducing young readers to emotions through nature-inspired storytelling
Day after day, like a leaf in the wind, our emotions change. Sometimes we feel light and free, other times we feel weighed down. One day we feel brave, the next we feel scared and small. Some days we feel strong and confident, while on others we need to take a break.
This beautifully poetic picture book takes young readers on a journey through the ever-changing landscape of emotions. The book uses rhyming verse to talk about feelings, showing that it's OK to change and grow, just like a leaf.
Praise
“A child explores various emotional states, leaving readers better suited to do the same. . . Mozzillo’s spare text conveys impressive nuance through its perfect rhymes and unrhyming couplets. Meanwhile, Balducci’s short and soft digital pencil sketches complete illustrative scenes rambling across vast white expanses . . . [T]his philosophical pick begs readers to embark on nature walks and sketch themselves into their own collages; it should find frequent use among science and art educators. A contemplative and poetic tale for emotionally attuned young naturalists.”
—Kirkus Reviews
"In Mozzillo’s mercurial picture book, a seasonal symbol of impermanence communicates the mutability of circumstances and feelings. Alongside frequently rhyming declarations, photographs of crisp autumnal leaves mingle with minimalist charcoal-like drawings to acknowledge the highs and lows. . . closing lines sagely center on an individual’s need to freely evolve (“If someday you want me,/ don’t ask who I am now”). Change is natural, suggest the creators of this introspective book of opposites."
—Publishers Weekly
“Poetic and inventive, this singular picture book explores the endless possibilities of imagination and childhood. Through a combination of photographs and minimalist illustrations, the story combines real-world images of leaves with imaginative descriptions of a young boy riding swirling waves or a faithful steed, while also making room for quiet moments: “One day I take root. Another day I LEAP.” The boy often mirrors the natural shape and movement of the leaves; the effect encourages a new way of observing the art all around us.”
—Foreword Magazine
“Paired with Balducci’s delicate sketches, Mozzillo’s minimalist text captures a wide range of emotions with remarkable economy. The illustrations are soft yet full of movement, drifting across stark white pages. Combined with real fall leaves and simple, poetic statements, they create an emotional journey that shows how one feeling can easily tumble into the next. Expertly translated from the original Italian by Muir, this quiet picture book invites readers to recognize and reflect on the changing emotions we all experience. Feelings can be difficult and confusing for young children; they need support as they learn to navigate the myriad emotions they experience. Mozzillo’s gentle text offers reassurance while serving as a natural conversation starter between children and their caregivers. VERDICT This thoughtful picture book is a strong addition to social-emotional learning collections and is recommended for libraries looking to refresh or expand their emotional support materials.”
—School Library Journal
