THE SEA IN THE WAY

Two animals separated by a vast body of water find a way to connect.

Badger and Bear live in simple cottages on opposite sides of the sea. Both care for each other, but Badger is clingier, wishing Bear “could tuck her in” and feeling too emotional to talk on their phone calls—a moment that will resonate with anyone who has ached for another but frozen under the pressure to find the right words. Finally, Badger has had enough and tries to cross the sea. After a botched rowboat ride lands her back where she started, a frustrated Badger attempts to negotiate with the sea, which spits back requests for objects as barter for passage. As Badger seeks these items, a bird shadows her, eventually providing a much-needed anchor; somehow, the journey across the water seems less important now, but the friendship between the two remains strong. Unlike many narratives about being apart from a loved one, this one doesn’t end in blissful reunion; instead, an open-ended conclusion leaves room for conversation and wondering. Hands will be picking up the phone to dial a beloved friend or family member after closing this book. Muted greens, soft grays, and spots of sleepy red complement the quiet yet potent prose, making for an insightful commentary on separation. (This book was reviewed digitally.)

Dreamy, smart waves of love, longing, listening, and learning.