About This Book
Reach for this book when you are preparing for a first family vacation or want to help a young child process the overwhelming sensory input of a busy outdoor excursion. This gentle story follows siblings Lucy and Tom as they navigate a classic day at the beach, from the excitement of arrival to the quiet fatigue of the journey home. It is a masterclass in observing the small, meaningful moments that define a child's world: the texture of sand, the coldness of the tide, and the simple pride of building a sandcastle with Dad. Shirley Hughes captures the authentic rhythms of early childhood, making this an ideal choice for toddlers and preschoolers (ages 2 to 6). It validates both the joy and the slight apprehensions a child might feel in a new environment. Parents will appreciate how the book models patient, present parenting and celebrates the beauty of ordinary family togetherness without the need for high-stakes drama or fast-paced action.
