Island Storm by Brian Floca and Sydney Smith is an interesting picture book. I read via an online reader copy and it is due later in July 2025. While the story itself was not my favorite, I really enjoyed the illustrations. They set the tone well, making action out of a piece of paper (or screen). I was not sure how to say it, therefore I took the publisher’s description and had (I believe an AI program) come up with something. And that something is: Two siblings find shelter after witnessing the breathtaking beauty and excitement of an island storm, from its peaceful beginning to its powerful climax and tranquil conclusion.
I would never use the phrase tranquil conclusion, but it is an interesting concept and does fit the ending. I was thinking, “I love a good storm as much as the next person, but I do not think I would venture as far away from home as these two kids did.” However, I liked how Smith’s colors change as things start to “heat up” and the storm comes closer, becomes more intense, then as it leaves and brightens the day. Things are dark, but always have a form of light to them that allows a little hope.
Of course, this is a great read aloud book. You could really get into the excitement of “running” from the storm but also running towards it as well. The ending is sweet and modern, but the overall feeling is almost old fashioned and set mid-twenty century. I was thinking if in the US it was Maine, Oregon or Washington as my first choices, but it easily could be anyplace in the world. It is a nice and cozy book. It is exciting without car chases, monsters or more traditional action, but the actions of nature and the beauty, danger and the awe-inspiring nature of it.