Scan barcode
erine's review
3.0
I struggled with the lack of clarity. Apparently it was the child narrating, speaking to their lost cat. But I didn’t catch on until the narrator tells the reader (cat) that they can go sit on a park bench, and “Sometimes my friend is there. If you see her, say hi. You could sit on her lap and she will pet you.” I found that creepy and had to read the whole thing three times before I could fully understand the story.
Basically, Small, it’s not you, it’s me. The illustrations hit the mark, but the text was so... whimsically difficult. I probably would have been more satisfied if I had known about the cat from the get-go. But neither the endpapers nor the title page had even the slightest clue.
As a book presented by someone in the know to another person who has lost their pet, this might be relatable, or even comforting. But I was merely confounded.
Upon reflection, a bonus star for a nonspecifically gendered main character. Which is a rarity, and yet, so delightful when it does occur.
Basically, Small, it’s not you, it’s me. The illustrations hit the mark, but the text was so... whimsically difficult. I probably would have been more satisfied if I had known about the cat from the get-go. But neither the endpapers nor the title page had even the slightest clue.
As a book presented by someone in the know to another person who has lost their pet, this might be relatable, or even comforting. But I was merely confounded.
Upon reflection, a bonus star for a nonspecifically gendered main character. Which is a rarity, and yet, so delightful when it does occur.
mixtercharlie's review
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
reflective
sad
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
4.75
jess_mango's review
4.0
When you are small in the city you can feel invisible and things might seem scary. In this book a little kid gives advice for being small in the city to a friend.
lalaoblivion's review
5.0
What a cute lil book. Loved the art. Kinda sad tho. Got me a little teary??
brenda8's review
emotional
5.0
Cities are beautiful and exciting, but they can also be brutal and scary. Getting to know your way around takes time, but the streets and buildings become part of yourself and your story.
Amazing book, amazing artwork. We need more books like this one.
Amazing book, amazing artwork. We need more books like this one.
carolineinthelibrary's review
5.0
Welp, I didn't expect to cry reading a picture book today but this one got me. The illustrations are beautiful and the story really keeps you going to the end...then it crushes your soul. I still loved it.
mbrandmaier's review
5.0
A child trudges through the snowy city, giving advice about the best warm spots. Eventually the reader realizes who the narrator is talking to. It is a little bit heartbreaking but leaves a subtle note of hope at the end with the final illustration.
jcstokes95's review
emotional
mysterious
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? N/A
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
3.5
The exact kind of illustrations I want in a picture book, beautifully textured. Quite a sad, slow piece and with ambiguity. Would be great for teaching about narration or searching for context clues upon reread. Overall, not as narrative focused as I personally like my children's book. But I am not a child, so your mileage may vary!