About This Book
A parent might reach for this book when their child is experiencing the separation of a family member due to incarceration or when they want to foster empathy for families in different circumstances. It follows a young girl and her grandmother as they prepare for and make the long journey to visit the girl's father in prison. The story focuses on the rituals of love, the excitement of reconnection, and the quiet resilience required to maintain family bonds through distance. While the setting is specific, the emotional core is universal, touching on themes of patience, hope, and the unconditional nature of a parent's love. Jacqueline Woodson's poetic prose and the warm illustrations make this sensitive topic accessible for children ages 4 to 8. It serves as both a mirror for children in similar situations and a window for those seeking to understand the diverse shapes that families can take.
