The Blue Velvet Chair

4.0

4.8 (1)

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Author(s)

Rio Cortez

Co-Authors / Illustrators

Aaron Marin

Publisher

Aaron Marin

Genre(s)

Age Range

Release Date

August 19, 2025

ISBN

978-1665912594

Buy This Book

A young girl looks out on the world from her favorite chair in this “quiet meditation on the sweet delight of simply observing the changing world” (Kirkus Reviews, starred review) by award-winning poet and New York Times bestselling author Rio Cortez.

In the morning, a young child opens her eyes, and, after one biiiiig streeeeetch, heads straight for her favorite place in the house: the blue velvet chair. Perched from the chair set by the living room window, the child daydreams about each season of the year and the changes that come with them. A now-snowy roof was once pelted by the slick rain of spring showers. Icy windows will once again transform into conveyors of sunshine and warmth against her skin.

And just as the seasons change, the child will continue to change too. But one thing will always remain the same: the coziness of the blue velvet chair.

Editor review

1 review

Look Through My Window

April 10, 2026 (Updated: June 23, 2026)

Overall rating

4.0

Plot

4.0

Characters

4.0

Writing Style

4.0

Illustrations/Photos (if applicable)

4.0

A young girl has a comforting routine in her upper-floor, urban apartment. There is a comfortable blue velvet chair near a window that overlooks the street, and she enjoys sitting there and watching the changing scenery. Sometimes, it is snowy and cold, and she can draw in the condensation on the window. She and her mother talk about time, and how we not only tell it with clocks, but also pencil marks denoting height. The girl sees the seasons change from rainy to springlike, and sees people and pets on neighboring roofs when it is hot out. She loves autumn best, with its colorful leaves. At bedtime, she thinks about all of the wonderful ways that the world might be changed tomorrow.

Good Points

While adults have seen so many seasons come and go that it barely registered, changing seasons are a big deal for children. Favorite summer clothes are outgrown, and each new flower or falling leaf is a little bit of a surprise. I love that the girl is actively investigating her environment and taking note of how things are different every day. Her mother discussing the concept of time with her is brilliant as well. Even though so much has changed, it is good for her to have something constant, like the cozy blue velvet chair. She doesn't need to know yet what lots of years will do to the upholstery!

The illustrations are bold and bright, and do a good job of capturing the changes in the world around the girl. It's interesting to see what can be seen from one particular vantage point, and the window is a nice frame through which to view all of the different seasons and activities.

Taking note of the day, season, and weather is a critical skill that kindergartners need to master, so this book would be a good morning choice before starting the day. Pair this with Meisel's My Happy Year, Deng's A Song of the Seasons, Mettler's A Year in Nature: Explore the Countryside, Month by Month, or Toht's lovely Together With You.

Karen Yingling, Staff Reviewer #1 Reviewer 2477 reviews

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User reviews

1 review

Overall rating

4.8

Plot

5.0(1)

Characters

5.0(1)

Writing Style

4.0(1)

Illustrations/Photos (if applicable)

5.0(1)

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A Cozy and Thoughtful Read About Growing Up

April 20, 2026 (Updated: June 23, 2026)

Overall rating

4.8

Plot

5.0

Characters

5.0

Writing Style

4.0

Illustrations/Photos (if applicable)

5.0

The Blue Velvet Chair is a gentle and reflective picture book that captures the beauty of everyday moments. The story follows a young girl who begins each day by sitting in her favorite spot, a soft blue velvet chair by the window. From there, she watches the world outside and quietly observes how it changes over time.

The book focuses on the passing of seasons, showing how the same view can look completely different throughout the year. Snowy rooftops, rainy days, warm sunshine, and colorful autumn leaves all pass by her window. These changes are described in a way that feels calm and almost dreamlike, encouraging readers to slow down and notice the small details around them.

One of the most meaningful parts of the story is how it connects these seasonal changes to the idea of growing up. The girl and her mother talk about time not just as something measured by clocks, but also through everyday changes like growing taller. This adds an extra layer of depth, helping children understand that change is a natural part of life. At the same time, the blue velvet chair represents comfort and stability, something that stays the same even as everything else changes.

The illustrations play a major role in bringing the story to life. They are bold, colorful, and full of movement, making each season feel distinct. The window acts as a frame, allowing readers to see the world from the girl’s perspective. This viewpoint makes the story feel personal and immersive.

Overall, The Blue Velvet Chair is a quiet but meaningful book that encourages observation, reflection, and appreciation for everyday life. It is especially well-suited for younger children who are learning about seasons, time, and change, but it also offers a sense of calm that readers of any age can enjoy.

Good Points

Thoughtful message about growth and consistency

Beautiful illustrations that highlight seasonal differences

Calm, reflective tone that encourages mindfulness and observation