AT THE END OF HOLYROOD LANE

A young girl conquers her fear of storms and learns to ask for help.

At her home beneath the beech trees at the end of Holyrood Lane, young Flick loves to frolic, cavort, and play in the sunshine. She dreads the unpredictable arrival of storms that hurt her ears, ruin her fun, and make her feel small. During the storms, she hides on her own from the thunder. One day, while chasing a rainbow, Flick finds herself caught amid the dark clouds, winds, and rain with no time to hide. Vivid language and personification heighten the intensity of the storms, giving them force and raging emotions. When storms arrive, they “bully the curtains,” “smother sunshine,” “ransack fun,” and “fume.” The watercolor illustrations that accompany the text fill the pages, leaving no space without a purpose. Swirling clouds in deep grays and blues press in on Flick, even when she hides inside under the laundry basket or her bed, capturing the energy of her frightened imagination. Although the story focuses on the theme of overcoming fears, the text never invalidates Flick’s concerns. In order to face what frightens her, Flick learns that she can seek help when she feels overwhelmed. Flick, who presents white, appears alone throughout save one illustration in which she shares an umbrella with a mostly hidden companion, a device that focuses readers’ attention on her agency and choice.

Expressive illustrations and text rich with poetic vocabulary share a sensitive story with a message about asking for help when a situation feels scary.