Review
In this illustrated children's tale, two friends go on a ballooning adventure.
A child and a dog decide to see something of the world, so they step into a hot air balloon. The two travelers lose their way for a time as wind, rain, and mist obscure their surroundings. As they drift through storms, sunshine, and snowflakes, the friends discover that even bad-weather days have "their brighter moments." They see beautiful and varied sights as they float above everything, guided by the stars until their safe return home. Carmel (Lucy Lick-Me-Not and the Day Eaters, 2014, etc.) combines minimal text with luscious acrylic-on-canvas illustrations of blue and purple dotted, swished, or dabbed with contrasting pinks, whites, and greens. The child and dog are always depicted as black silhouettes that show surprising personality, as with the dog's cocked ears; the silhouettes also help the book's inclusivity, as there are no cues about race or sex (the child is short-haired and wears a simple shirt and pants). Although the artwork is the real draw here, the tale is also told charmingly, sweetly reassuring children that venturing into the world has rewards as well as uncertainties, and that "Home would always be there." The story also works well as a bedtime book, preparing children for a journey into dreams.
An appealing, encouraging picture book.
-KIRKUS REVIEWS
From the Back Cover
Two friends set off for an adventure in the sky. They travel through all kinds of weather before making it home again, but will they want to stay there after having had such a big adventure?
About the Author
Claudine Carmel grew up on the south coast of England and now lives in the Pacific Northwest. She is an author and illustrator and is never happier than when she has had a full day of creating imaginative stories. Her books have received starred reviews, award nominations, and "best of" honors. Her education has always had a basis in visual storytelling that included photography, multimedia studies, film production, and screenwriting. When she isn't dreaming up colorful worlds, she can usually be found beside her cheerful Boston terrier on long coastal walks.
