MAKING SPACE

A sunny look at living life with intention.

Seemingly small moments can build character and teach lessons. Each spread in this story speaks to a common experience or feeling, from grappling with death and learning from one’s mistakes to taking the time to find the perfect leaf clover and thirsting for knowledge. This brief, ambitious book is deceptively simple. While the ideas expressed are lofty, the text never talks down to the intended audience as it stresses the importance of making space not only for the momentary encounters in life, but also for the emotions involved. Tanco’s pen illustrations are delicate and textured; the palette is limited to black and shades of gray and yellow. The brightness of the yellow tones effectively conveys mood. The spare prose (“To plant a seed…and watch it grow,” “For things that can go wrong,” “To keep a secret”) feels like a long list at times; it may make more sense if grown-ups preface the various items with the book’s title. While the work never condescends to children, adults may get more out of it, making it more appealing as a gift book than as a read-aloud. Children are depicted in various gray hues and hair textures.

A reminder to embrace the smaller moments in life with purpose.