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Monday, 2 September 2024

Review: The Little Street Library

One of the best things to come out of perpetual lockdowns the world over, is the emergence of random, unique and welcoming street libraries.

The Little Street Library is an absolutely gorgeous book about one child’s vision to bring her street together with one of these libraries. 

The story explores all of the very best things in life – community, connection, stories, joy and hope. It’s a total celebration!

Of course, it isn’t all dancing in the street and good times. The story opens as Rafi’s best, life-long friend and next-door neighbour Leo, moves out of their neighbourhood. This naturally makes Rafi very sad. She and Leo have shared books and stories and imaginings for as long as she can remember, so it’s a tough time.

Happily, Rafi owns a box of ‘good pencils’ and an active imagination. And so, with her parents’ blessing, she creates a plan to build their very own street library.

After painting an inclusive invitation banner which is hung on the front fence for the whole neighbourhood to enjoy, Sunday morning rolls around with many surprises. We see neighbours old and young gather to swap books and stories, and to share morning tea on Rafi’s front lawn. 

The engaging text and colourful illustrations work seamlessly to bring Rafi, her family and her neighbours to life with great heart and fun.  The illustrations are full of life and invite us to pore over their detailed, friendly and warming neighbourhood interactions.

This book is pure delight. Highly recommended.


Title:
The Little Street Library
Author: Amy Adeney
Illustrator: Erin McLean
Publisher: Affirm, $24.99
Publication Date: 25 June 2024
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781922863355
For Ages: 3 - 7
Type: Picture Book