I have been debating whether I should start the next Cannonball (no way I can finish it) or leave my current count at an “odd” number? (I like “boxed numbers” ending in zero or 5. Otherwise it looks “odd” to me). But The Wave answered that for me. I knew I had to tell you about this book right now.
Tyler Charlton (author and illustrator) of this picture book (available, but I read via an online reader copy) made something that is very emotional, strong, soft, and relatable. The young narrator of the story is “just there” (the image shows them building with their blocks) and The Wave comes over him. This is a wave of sadness. Not sure why this is happening, the boy must “ride the wave” to the conclusion. There are “flashbacks” to other times this has happened as well as the current situation.
Based on feelings and experiences of Charlton (as a child and adult), this story of sadness/depression is an interesting way of dealing with the subject. With a hopeful ending, the tone overall is not really “sad,” just somber and straightforward. It might not fit with everyone’s situation, but it is a good way to approach the subject with children.
The part that drives it all home are the illustrations. They are mostly dark colors and have a charcoal/pencil effect. They are not overwhelming with details but are full. They are both their own character and support to the text and the story. They are interesting and are an experience. They bring alive the themes of depression, empathy, and hope.
