Each time I open one of his new books, I know there will be a pinnacle moment that takes me by surprise, and delights me in ways I never imagined. Home in the Rain absolutely does this. And it all happens right next to a petrol bowser.
Next to everyday life.
It's often the smallest moments that make life happy and memorable. Just a few hours ago, I was chatting with a friend about those special moments that seem so intensely ordinary. One of them, for example, was not on my wedding day, but on the following morning when I had breakfast with my new husband for the first time. Such an everyday thing--but an absolute life event ... when we fully immerse in the joy and majesty of a single precious moment that strikes the very centre of our heart.
This is what happens in Bob Graham's latest book--and it's precious, indeed.
Francie is leaving Grandma's house with her mum and baby sister, still tucked warmly inside her mum's tum.
It's raining heavily. The threesome have a long drive ahead.
They enter the congested freeway then stop after some time to nibble lunch on the roadside. Back on the road, they stop still further along at a petrol station, and this is where a beautiful moment occurs between all three girls.
The subtle, imperceptible build to this moment is so palpable, I actually prepared myself for a tragedy to unfold at this precise moment. But it was not tragedy. It was a small joy too large for three hearts.
Bob's iconic illustrations carry their gentle, watercolour-wash hum, alongside delectably amiable characters and the gentleness of narrative that he's known for.
A truly lovely addition to the heart-touching Bob Graham book collection.
Title: Home in the Rain
Author/Illustrator: Bob Graham
Publisher: Walker Books, $24.99
Publication Date: 1 October 2016
Format: Hard cover
ISBN: 9781406368239
For ages: 3 - 8
Type: Picture Book
