A stunning picture book that addresses life’s big journeys with hope, beauty, and reassurance
School Library Journal [STARRED REVIEW!]
“[A] moving, allegorical tale… inspiring reflection and empathy”
Kirkus Reviews [STARRED REVIEW!]
“A potent discussion starter… Enchanting, beautiful, and full of hope. “
Booklist [STARRED REVIEW!]
“A lyrical tale of leaving home and finding a new one…Thought-provoking and arrestingly beautiful.”
A boy must leave his home and find another. He brings with him a teacup full of earth from the place where he grew up, and sets off to sea. Some days, the journey is peaceful, and the skies are cloudless and bright. Some days, storms threaten to overturn his boat. And some days, the smallest amount of hope grows into something glorious. At last, the boy finds land, but it doesn't feel complete . . . until another traveler joins him, bearing the seed to build a new home.
With lyrical text and gorgeous artwork, this poignant picture book is perfect for discussing all of life’s toughest challenges—a big move, a divorce, long-distance separation, or even the current refugee crisis—in a way that’s reassuring and inspiring for children and adults alike.
Rebecca Young grew up in suburban Sydney with two brothers, a swing set, and the scent of gardenias. Her days were filled with chalk drawings on driveways, backyard battles, journal ramblings, and a whole lot of picture books. These days Rebecca enjoys working with words and pictures as both a children’s book author and publisher.
Matt Ottley is an illustrator and musician living in New South Wales, Australia, with his partner in a peaceful little cottage. He was born in Papua New Guinea, and loves woodworking, tea, and wildlife.
* "Enchanting, beautiful, and full of hope."—
Kirkus Reviews, starred review
* "While the journey and its inherent uncertainty is naturally a fitting metaphor for growing up, connections to actual sea travel and subtle hints about turmoil in the boy’s homeland suggest connections to immigration stories as well...This pleasantly minimalist and contemplative story is quietly thought-provoking and arrestingly beautiful."—
Booklist, starred review
* "A beautifully crafted story that’s perfect for sharing aloud and discussing with a small group."—
School Library Journal, starred review
"Ottley’s ravishing paintings of ocean and sky distinguish this story."—
Publishers Weekly
