Bigger Than Yesterday, Smaller Than Tomorrow
Robert Vescio
Kathy Creamer
Little Pink Dog Books. 2018
32pp., hbk., RRP $A24.95
9780994626950
Summer holidays are here and Dad and Hannah are going camping, As they are leaving, Mum, who is staying home to look after the baby, gives Hannah her scarf although Hannah is sure she won’t need it because the fire will keep her warm and she is “bigger than yesterday.”
This becomes her mantra as the day passes, they find the perfect spot and set up camp. But as night falls and they toast marshmallows, suddenly Hannah starts to feel “smaller than tomorrow”. Will she manage without her mum through the night?
This is a charming story for young readers who may be facing their first outdoor experience these summer holidays. While it is very exciting it can be daunting once the sun sets and there are new sounds and smells, especially for those with an imagination, so it’s OK to be a little afraid as you start to become independent. Even though Dad does as much as he can to help Hannah feel confident and comfortable, sometimes something a little extra is needed. The twist at the end is not only delightful, but also a great idea.
With a gentle storyline, complemented by soft watercolour illustrations, this is something special to share with little ones before they begin this new adventure, one that is almost a rite of passage in an Australian childhood.