PICTURE BOOKS

Chloe and the Fireflies

by Chris Clarkson (text) & illus. by Julie Jarema
Abrams. Nov. 2024. 32p. Tr $18.99. ISBN 9781419766480.
COPY ISBN
K-Gr 4–This picture book gives readers a glimpse into the life of a young girl longing for love and acceptance. Chloe, who is Black, has bounced around in the foster system, never staying any one place for long. Then she arrives at her new home with two foster dads—one Black, one white—and finally feels a sense of belonging. This new feeling exists not only in her new home, but also in her new school. With the turn of every page, readers learn more about how Chloe is thriving in her new environment, even as she wonders if her wish to stay forever in this foster home will be realized. The illustrator’s use of painted pastel blues, pinks, greens, yellows, and purples evokes calm feelings as Chloe’s future unfolds.
VERDICT This hopeful work on a subject treated all too infrequently in picture books would be a sensitive and welcome addition to any library.
Reviewed by Misty Schattle , Nov 01, 2024

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