Review: Eighteen Summers

Let me tell you a tale of the stars and the sea,
of adventures we’ll have as you grow wild and free.

Eighteen Summers is a loving, rhyming picture book about life, love and growth. 

It’s written as a story from mother to daughter of the eighteen summers they’ll cherish together.

It explores the wonder and joy that’s to come as it all plays out on the pages through the gorgeous illustrations.

Summers of sunshine, and soft, buzzing flowers…
long lazy days where we slip through the hours.

As the daughter grows, the activities change, but the connection between mother and child remains ever strong as mum listens and watches and teaches.

You’ll grow wishful as wind, with a courage as strong,
and you’ll soon hear the call of the moon-voyage song.

This is a story of love, hope and wonder. Penny Harrison puts so much heart into this book and you feel it all as you read. It’s a beautiful story every mother will relate to, and every daughter will love to hear.

Leila Rudge’s illustrations are ‘oh my gosh’ amazing! Soft, rich colours in a joyful textured style. The details are exquisite and add so much depth and deeper storylines. The repeating origami elements are both beautiful and meaningful. Watch out for them and you’ll see added layers in the story.

A picture book for bedtime, warm hugs and gifts to a daughter, Eighteen Summers is a beautiful addition to your picture book collection.

For more books by Penny Harrison check out Little Coven, Extraordinary and Rainbow is my Favourite Colour. To see more Leila Rudge books check out Let me Sleep, Sheep, Definitely No Ducks! and Gary. 

Title: Eighteen Summers
Author: Penny Harrison
Illustrator: Leila Rudge
Publisher: Hardie Grant, $24.99
Publication Date: 1 November 2023
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781761212505
For ages: 3 - 6
Type: Picture Books