The Sun Never Hurries

PreS-Gr 1–A muted palette makes for illustrations that perfectly match this quiet story with a strong message. Papa Jo and his granddaughter are spending the day together doing simple things: preparing soup, enjoying ice cream, rowing out to an island, watching the sunset. But these bear characters convey the importance of living life in a mindful way, with Papa’s hourglass being the symbol that time is precious. When Charlie asks how long the boat ride will take, the answer is “that depends.” When one is observant, each experience takes on new value, as Charlie discovers when she takes the time to notice the glitter on the water, stones, frogs, birds, and insects. Without being preachy, this gentle tale will appeal to children in all circumstances, as the opportunity to slow down and notice details is always worth taking. As the final line in the book reminds readers, “[T]he sun is never in a hurry.”