CHILD OF GALAXIES

Following the trend of mindfulness books for little ones, a poetic ode to the universe that exists inside each child.

Children are made from the stars and filled to the brim with potential, and there’s a universe for them to explore, both inside and out. In rhyming text that speaks directly to readers, Nuto seeks to empower children to be themselves and stay present in the moment even when doubts and fears encroach. Humans with a variety of skin tones and hair colors/textures inhabit a variety of imaginary and realistic environments. As the book closes, readers are encouraged to “EMBRACE the MYSTERIOUS MORNING.” The complex vocabulary is enticing and expansive, but at the same time caregivers may need to interrupt the rhythm and flow of the text to define words and concepts. At times the rhymes feel a tad forced, but overall the effect is pleasing. The painterly illustrations shine as they toggle between fantastical images of kids floating among stars and planets and scenes of everyday life in the city and country, at the beach and art museum. Textured linework and warm colors create a playful world. In many ways, the illustrations support inclusivity. However, the effectiveness of an illustration that includes a person in a wheelchair is somewhat undermined by the previous exultation that “You have LIMBS, and a mind that SPROUTS WINGS!”

Those already familiar with mindfulness concepts may be this book’s natural audience.