
K-Gr
3–Gentle, rhythmic self-narration by Newbery Medalist de la Peña invites an ideal read-along, encouraging rewarding engagement with artist Loren Long’s sublimely atmospheric illustrations. An enhancing soundtrack shifts from manmade noises to friendly laughter and nature’s melodies. “
Home is a tired lullaby,” de la Peña opens, “and a late-night traffic that mumbles in through a crack in your curtains.” Home seems aurally highlighted—“faint trumpet of a distant barge,” “jet-engine shrieks,” “eighteen-wheel groan of your father’s big rig.” Despite steel and concrete, homes can be lost to nature’s wrath or challenging hardships, but de la Peña promises “a harbor in love” where family and friends gather to share and nurture each other. “Home is not the voice inside your head insisting, ‘I want, I want, I want.’” Instead, “it’s the thump, thump, thump of the earth’s sentimental song inviting you into the harmony of things.”
VERDICT Provide both print and audio bundled together for the warmest welcome Home.
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