Review: Dearest One by Arielle Dance, illustrated by Jenny Duke

A heartfelt letter from a grandma to her grandchild, this sweet, inspiring picture book reminds children to practise self-care, resilience, empathy and mindfulness in their everyday lives. 

Debut children's author Ariella Dance's affirming text is set off wonderfully by Jenny Dukes' digitally-finished, mixed-media illustrations, both text and images working together effortlessly to emotive effect. 

Suitable for most age groups and informative without being too overbearing, the text explores a range of feelings children may experience as they grow and face the challenges of life. 

From sadness to loneliness, disappointment to fear, these tricky yet common feelings are subtly addressed by grandma's nurturing words. Her letter refocuses children's attention, encouraging them to find joyful moments in everything including dancing in the rain on a gloomy day, picking flowers for a loved-one or enjoying spontaneous, imaginative play alone or with a friend. 

Throughout Dance's tone is kind, lighthearted and friendly although when reading the text with children, you may wish to initiate a discussion around appropriate social interactions with strangers.  

In the nostalgic, penultimate spread where grandma and grandchild pore over old photos, their loving bond is almost palpable, and there's a slight feeling that grandma's time on earth might be limited as she passes on precious wisdom to the next generation. Although not explicitly referenced, underlying themes of bereavement or loss suggest the book might be useful in supporting children's mental wellbeing in multiple ways. 

This soothing, reassuring and uplifting picture book is medicine for the stressful times in which we live. It reminds children of the healing power of love — love for the natural world, other people and themselves — a positive message they will hold dear now more than ever. 

Dearest One by Arielle Dance, illustrated by Jenny Duke, is available in hardcover format from April 2022. Preorder from Lantana Books. 

Thanks to Lantana Books for sending me a review copy. 

Check out my Black Children's Books directory for suggested suitability of all the books I review.