Two children move through their day in this poetic story about the interconnected rhythms of life. From the first glow of the sun to its oppressive heat, followed by a cooling rain, two children feel the ups and downs and sways of an ordinary day. They sense the hum of the classroom and the build-up of noise until it becomes too much and they escape to a quiet place together—before moving back outside to roll down a hill. Then a bump and a scrape slow things down again, though one friend is there to help the other. On goes the day, filled with friendship and fun, until it winds to a close and the children make their way home into the loving arms of each of their parents.
Author Mk Smith Despres’s evocative free verse beautifully acknowledges and affirms the shifting moments and moods of childhood, while Julie Benbassat’s soft illustrations add a touch of whimsy and wonder, as when the children swing into their day on sunbeams.
The queer content isn’t obvious, but neither child is gendered, and one could easily be read as nonbinary (like Despres themself), while the other reads as a girl. One parent, who reads as a woman, is wearing a traditionally masculine suit and tie, implying a certain gender creativity. Children of all genders, however (and their adults) should appreciate this lovely story about navigating life supported by friendship and love. Highly recommended.
One child has pale skin and black hair; the other has light tan skin and brown hair.
