Everyone loves everyone in Tess’ house. But when Tess has to start school for the first time, her family cannot come with her. Will the love be able to stretch that far?
This is a gentle tale of love and bravery for children who may be finding their independence for the first time. A string ties the child to all the people she cares about. It is a revelation to her when she discovers that others all have this string. Her courage is tested when her mother is late to collect her after school, but everything is resolved happily in the end.
Ideally suited to those returning to the routines of the school day after a long absence, this could be shared with any family where a child is struggling to take steps towards a new experience without the reassuring hand or eye of a loved one. Beautifully illustrated in muted pastel colours, the accompanying pictures present a cosmopolitan feel which hints at an Asian and French influence in the background to the story.
Other books by Corrinne Averiss which tackle similar emotionally challenging topics for young readers include: Joy, an uplifting story about the relationship between a small child and her lonely grandmother; and Hope, an emotional tale of hope and strength of character in the face of the potential loss of a pet. Each is illustrated by a different illustrator; providing a unique partnership between the child centered narrative and the complimentary colour illustrations.
With thanks to Hachette for a copy of the book to review.
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