Kuo, Julia. Home Is a Wish. Julia Kuo, Illus. Roaring Brook, 02/2025. 32pp. Picture Book. Trade $18.99. 978-1-2508-8132-8. GRADES Preschool–1. ADDITIONAL.
A young Asian child navigates moving to a new place with their family and learning to accept it as their home. This book has a breathtaking color palette that shifts from pastel oranges, yellows, and pinks to moody blues. These color changes reflect the young child’s emotional journey as they find comfort in their new neighborhood. The illustrations are dreamlike but are grounded in the concept of embracing life’s transitions. The repetition of words and phrases shows that each home has the same elements that gradually become familiar to the child. This book features an Asian family composed of a young child, their mother (mama), and their grandmother (amah). Mama and Amah affectionately call the young child Bao Bei, a Chinese nickname. The digital graphic-style artwork uses flat imagery with shadows and textures. The young child finds new friends, tries new snacks, and meets new people in the neighborhood. This story highlights how accepting change can be positive and worthwhile, even amid initial apprehension.
Kazuko Rance—Contra Costa County Public Library