Small in the City, written and illustrated by Sydney Smith
Sometimes, it is very easy for big people (and older siblings) to overwhelm little ones with their big ideas and big words. It has been happening, unconsciously, at our home for the past few weeks what with Giggles (9) starting a new, older grade and learning a bunch of big new words over the summer. My littlest man, Gurgles (5) had been feeling left out. He can't understand the new games, or the big tough words spoken on the news and everyone has been too busy to explain things to him. As a result we had an epic meltdown recently.
Small in the City is about a young boy who accepts that he understands what it feels like to be lost and alone, small and insignificant in a big, bustling city. There are people always in a hurry, moving, hustling to get to places. No one has time to stop, chat, or smile. But he finds comfort in the smallest things -- a dryer vent, a mulberry bush, kind fish stall vendors, and church music. His walk home is filled with advice on how to navigate empty lots and avoid dark alleys. But at the end of it all he knows the warmth of home awaits.
This book makes it so easy to have large, scary conversations with little kids. The illustrations and wordless panels draw the reader in and paints a stark picture of a busy city that has no time to waste. The colour scheme is reminiscent of a winter landscape but even in a city like ours that doesn't see that sort of season, the illustrations remain relatable.
This book has been in the news recently for being this year's #kategreenawaymedal winner and I don't need to sell it anymore but let me leave you with one last thought -- this book is timeless and one of those books that will speak to any member of your family, young or old.
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