ARE YOU LISTENING?

A child reflects on auditory experiences in this immersive ode to mindful listening.

As the book opens on a bustling park, a blond, light-skinned child informs us that “the world is busy.” We see someone speaking on a cell phone, an airplane flying, a musician playing the violin, a baby babbling—all familiar, noisy experiences. But when the child’s eyes are closed, these sounds become waves, represented as colorful lines and squiggles. The young narrator explains that when we actively listen, we “begin to understand.” Sounds such as “the noisiness of nature” become differentiated, and the little one picks up on “the humming of a bee sipping from a flower” and “the whispers of a breeze talking to the tree” and realizes that “everything is alive.” Deeper listening—not just to words, but to “the sadness, joy, wonder, or excitement” in conversation—promotes empathy and caring; Verde offers a welcome reminder that when we listen to our own bodies, we’re better equipped to care for ourselves. Vibrant, stimulating illustrations depict a diverse world, featuring people of varied skin tones (some with visible disabilities) and a home with two male-presenting parents. Simple questions such as “What do you notice when you listen?” provide opportunity for conversation and reinforce understanding. Verde includes an easy but effective mindfulness exercise in her author’s note.

A lovely reminder that listening is more than hearing.