I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, picture books are great for that “I need to read but I don’t want something too long or heavy. And I can still say, “I read a book!” feeling. We Leap Together by Christopher Silas Neal (due April 2025; read via an online reader copy) is one of those quickies. It is about how the whales and humans are a lot alike when it comes to many things, but mostly caring for a young one. I can’t say a lot about the text/story because I think I have already typed more words than the book has, but I can say it is good for the younger child, or for a new baby gift, or for someone who likes pretty books.
Now the illustrations are not “frameable” in the traditional sense, but they do give off sweet vibes and “baby room” image vibes. The colors are good, details are minimal but get the job down. Orange or the sun is an important part of things, the blues also really highlight the story. They can be read on their own, but do complement the overall story. I am not sure if this will be a larger rectangular or square format, but think either would work well.
When it is time for a board book edition I hope that it’s larger or lap sized, as it will not look as nice in a small, traditional sized board book. After all, we are talking about whales and love. Two things that do not shrink well!