Hello & Goodnight
Imani Lewis (author) and Uliana Barabash (illustrator)
Red Beetle Publishing, LLC (2021)
ISBN 978-1734517095
Reviewed by Sheri Hoyte for Reader Views Kids (2021)
“Hello & Goodnight,” written by Imani Lewis and illustrated by Uliana Barabash is an adorable bedtime story that little ones will certainly enjoy, but I have a feeling it’s the adults who will be the ones wanting to read this one over and over again!
In the story, readers meet young Emery and follow along with her as she explores a day full of her very favorite things with her very favorite people—mommy and daddy. The story is short but sweet and will leave an indelible imprint on your heart. I fell in love from the very first page with the words, “Hello, fan. Hello, light.” My 20-month-old granddaughter does this exact thing, saying hello to everything. She will absolutely love this book and relate to every single page. It is, after all, the story of her life with her mommy and daddy; the three of them enjoying all the same activities and familial structures as Emery and her family. Did Imani Lewis spend a day with my son and his family? Seems like it!
The writing is smooth and graceful. The author’s words float across the pages in a warm, inviting, and playful tone. It’s sheer pleasure reading, almost like singing a song. Lewis captures the essence of love and family and one feels like they are snuggling in bed with a warm blanket and a favorite stuffed animal.
Then there are the illustrations. Can I just say, WOW! The first word that entered my mind when I saw the cover of “Hello and Goodnight” was “sweet!” Illustrator Uliana Barabash did an impeccable job of bringing the family to life with her endearing, charming, delightful drawings. The soft, subtle hues enhance the story perfectly, and it feels like the two elements could not be possible without each other, melding together in sweet perfection to create a bedtime story of the highest caliber.
Overall, “Hello & Goodnight” is a delightful story that will appeal to little ones, their parents, and their grandparents, and I highly recommend it as a must-have in every little home library.
2 Responses
I echo the comments of the person who wrote “Hello and Goodnight” is a “must have”! I have purchased copies for my grandchildren; and it is becoming a staple gift to new parents. In addition, I have donated this book to the collection of any organization that’s collecting books, and recommended to other people as a gift for their children & grands! I loved reading this book, and was able to enjoy one of my grandchildren read it to me! This book is such a delight, from the reading to Illustrations! Again, a “must have” for libraries at home, school, hospitals, etc. Thank You, Thank You, Thank You, for sharing the LOVE!
Nice! Thank you for sharing!