Up High
By Matt Hunt (Nosy Crow, 2024)
Written + illustrated by a Dad who has a young son, this is a story about fatherhood from the perspective of a young boy. If you loved ‘Small in the City’ you’ll love this too. Even more, you’ll love the colour, vibrancy, mixed-media creativity that’s been poured into the storytelling. Details like the tattoos on Dad’s arms, or the diversity on the streets as father + son go for their walk to the park.
I love the cute moment Dad is window shopping for tools, while his son leans the opposite direction on his shoulders to point at the delicious pastries and cakes next door. This story makes it feel so easy to have a lovely day out together, just head out the door, see what you can see, take a picnic or buy a sandwich to eat at the park. Nothing more fun than being out in nature for some quality time!
The reader sees the world from ‘Up High’ + from down on the ground, observing the contrast between city streets + wildlife filled green spaces. Aww… the contented child sleepy cuddle at the end, SO CUTE!
Dads, I think you’ll love this! If you don’t already, or have gotten out of the habit, maybe you’ll be inspired to start up or go back to a weekly Father-Son or Father-Daughter adventure at the park, or the beach?
Excerpts from the book
Ad - review copy provided by the publisher