I Miss You Most written by Charlotte Cheng and illustrated by Xindi Yan, published by Rocky Pond Books*.
The themes of grief and memories are apparent as soon as the reader opens I Miss You Most and perceives the end papers. Cherished items reveal culture and interests as they float across the spreads.
All the backstory the reader needs of the main characters is the illustration on the title page of a framed photograph of a grandparent and grandchild. From there, the first line, "I miss you most at dinner when seafood stew is served" invites the reader to sit down at their table and hear their story. The young girl misses him "most" on numerous occasions, in small daily moments and bigger ones. From page to page, text and image dance as memories resurface.
Furthermore, Cheng crafts her words in such a way that they envelope the reader deeper into the narrative, particularly in lines such as "I hear you in the whispers of a gentle summer breeze." The reader not only hears the breeze but feels it. Cheng's writing is lyrical and rhythmic, enough to cradle the reader along the main character's journey from hurt to healing to the comfort of remembering, "...your love is with me and will never go away."
Imagine It!
Imagine someone you appreciate. Between family, friends, school, and community, many people (and pets!) add to our lives.
Make a list, a drawing, a collage, maybe even a recipe that represents something you enjoy doing together. Then share your creation with that person (or pet).
Imagine how loved they will feel.
*Appreciation is extended to the publisher for providing a review copy. All hard copies of books for review are donated to Bright Blessings.
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