This is a quiet, contemplative story that explores the many facets of urban life as well as the ways we think about the lives around us in relation to ourselves. A philosophical beauty, recommended for most collections.
While standing up to bullies is nothing new for the perpetually self-confident protagonist, the whimsical approach paired with Catrow’s familiar signature ink and watercolor caricatures make this an easily digestible lesson in making good choices and speaking up.
Zhu’s message may be that love conquers distance or the post office endures, but it doesn’t matter; children will love Dandan’s fantastical journey. For larger collections.
This fairytale-style story provides a springboard for discussion of current events with children, and presents a more optimistic view of the future in a time where the outlook often seems bleak.
An optional purchase: for children disturbed by the harmless neglect of the animals, the story offers discussion openers for young ones who have not quite figured out whether or not they enjoy sleepovers.