TODAY IS A ME DAY

A young child spends a day indulging in fun, tranquil pastimes.

In a bucolic, seaside setting, the world calls to the narrator, who chooses activities that are quiet, indulgent, or just plain pleasant. The child watches raindrops, licks honey from a spoon, has a picnic with a stuffed bear, and then tosses leftover crumbs to some birds. The narrator focuses on the self (counting their freckles, practicing yogalike poses), creative endeavors (decorating shoes, remaking a racetrack), and nature (greeting a dragonfly, stuffing their pockets with smooth stones). Even bedtime is pastoral, as the child sleeps in a canopied hammock under a large tree and a full moon. Tomorrow is left open to the possibilities of adventure and empowerment. Without stating it outright, this book promotes rejuvenating breaks, when life can be enjoyed moment to moment. Only one of the activities involves another person—painting Mama’s fingernails—while the rest are spent in blissful solitude at the narrator’s pace and discretion. Both the measured text and the balmy pictures cultivate the meditative atmosphere. The soft, watercolorlike illustrations, frequently showcasing a sweeping countryside, are contemplative and peaceful. The child and their mother both are light-skinned. (This book was reviewed digitally.)

Mellow calmness.