Review Detail

I have to say this wordless picture book from Freya Blackwood is one of the most stunning, captivating books I've come across in a long time. The detailed, emotive illustrations had my whole family enthralled. My six-month-old who was mesmerized by the colors and shapes, and my older son loved narrating the story to her. We plan to give a copy to my mom, who is in her sixties, for her birthday.
The story follows a young boy who finds magic in the overgrown plot of land next to his home, imagining an elephant amid the branches and leaves. When workers arrive to clear the area, the boy springs into action to protect his special place. It's a beautiful exploration of the power of nature, childhood imagination, and community.
What makes this book so special is how it transcends age and background. There are no words, so kids can interpret the story in their own way. But the depth of emotion and themes around environmentalism and the importance of green spaces also speak to adult readers. This book would be an incredible asset in the classroom for sparking discussions, as well as a beloved addition to any home library.