HERE

A child is present in the moment, ready to experience the now.

“Some days the world is a warm gold sun. Some days it is a green grass wave. Some days it is a bright blue ball. Some days it is a cool gray stone.” Some days are good; others are hard. But our young narrator knows that if they are sad, anxious, alone, or frustrated, there are ways they can center themself. Looking, hearing, tasting, smelling, and feeling are ways to remain present and here. Other options include being active, drawing, writing, voicing their feelings, doing something to help another, and remembering they are loved. Condie’s simple, encouraging text is supported by Kim’s bright digital illustrations that have a watercolor look. Soft, rounded images depict a tan-skinned, short-haired, barefoot child marching through the world, meeting it head-on, and experiencing their here and now. The little one cuts an endearing figure as they stride purposefully against a verdant landscape, bite into a crunchy apple, embrace a parent, and gaze up at the clouds. Pairing this with Tomie dePaola’s Look and Be Grateful (2015) would make for an affirming storytime. (This book was reviewed digitally.)

A gentle child’s-eye view of mindfulness.