FIRST NIGHT AT DAD'S

A young child spends his first night in a parent’s new house after a divorce.

As Henry packs, he feels excited to hang out with Dad, who doesn’t live with him and Mom anymore. But Henry’s also a little worried about what to expect. Mom tells him that even though change is hard, it will be an adventure. Most importantly, one thing will remain the same: how much Mom and Dad love Henry. Dad arrives and drives the two out to the country, where Dad plays tour guide at the new house, showing Henry the big yard, shelves for his books, and a dragon blanket on his bed—just like at home! They make dinner together (Henry is the taste tester, like always), but when Henry is reminded of Mom, everything suddenly becomes too much, and he hides under his new bed. Dad tells Henry that love and memories are what make a home, and they will make some here. Later, after the same bedtime routine, there’s another surprise along with a final reminder of Dad’s love. Rudnick’s story speaks to an experience common to children of divorce, gracefully presented here with calming reassurance yet also acknowledging the emotional difficulties. Cellier’s art, likewise, is peaceful and depicts emotional truths. Henry has light-tan skin and curly brown hair, like Dad; Mom is a touch paler.

Simple and sweet.