Facing the Storm
Note: I received a temporary e-copy of this book from Kids Can Press via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
As I settle down with my laptop and my cup of tea, the sky is becoming darker and darker outside. It's only midday, but I already have to turn on a light in this dim room because of the gloominess that precedes approaching rain. I could not have planned for a more perfect setting to read and reflect on Akiko Mijakoshi's upcoming release, The Storm. A story about courage and imagination in the face of fear and uncertainty, this compelling picture book is one that readers of all ages will be able to learn from and identify with.
The deliberate use of textured black and white charcoal throughout this book is incredibly fitting for the story that is being told. Indeed, as I look outside my own window right now, there is certainly a prevalent greyness that overshadows the rest of the scenery. The drab colors that Mijakoshi utilizes also do well to suggest and emphasize the young protagonist’s disappointment and, later, his anxious mood. After all, an impending storm has ruined his plans for the weekend and then becomes frightening in its intensity. Slightly reminiscent of Chris Van Allburg's distinctive style, these illustrations also have a remarkable amount of depth and emotion. The use of shadowing is so well employed here, it gives the clear impression of realistic space and distance. I especially appreciate how Mijakoshi showed great restraint when she finally introduced some color at the end of the story. It's not too much or too little; and it brings more meaning to everything that was absent before.
The theme of this story is beautiful and powerful in its subtlety. Every child can relate to the young main character, who has been looking forward to time at the beach but has to wait because of events that are beyond his control. And yet, even adults can identify with his helplessness in the face of nature's strength. The unique perspective on several of the pages, which resembles the low viewpoint of a child looking up, furthers this overall feeling of smallness and vulnerability. Without being forceful, the story also focuses on the impressive role of imagination and the power that it can have in quelling and overcoming fears. Hiding under the covers of his bed, the boy turns his apprehension of the storm into an adventure in his mind and frees himself of his fear.
In summary, Akiko Mijakoshi's newest picture book is beautifully created and powerfully told. With her black and white illustrations and her masterful use of artistic techniques, she explores experiences and emotions that every reader, no matter their age, can connect with and find encouragement from in the face of their own storms.
Release Date: April 5, 2016