Amy June Bates is a celebrated illustrator whose visual storytelling has graced the pages of over forty children's books. Her distinctive style brings narratives to life with a sensitive touch, captivating young readers and immersing them in the heart of each story. Bates's artistic contributions have earned her accolades from the Society of Illustrators, highlighting her significant impact on the field. She crafts work that leaves a lasting impression on its intended audience.
The quest for the perfect pet takes an unexpected turn for Mr. and Mrs. Gargelson-Bittle as they discover they can't settle on just one. This delightful story, inspired by the themes of companionship and the diverse forms of family, emphasizes the joy of forming new friendships. With a heartwarming narrative and charming illustrations, it captures the essence of togetherness and the beauty of embracing differences.
“A subtle, deceptively simple book about inclusion, hospitality, and welcoming the ‘other.’” —Kirkus Reviews “A boundlessly inclusive spirit...This open-ended picture book creates a natural springboard for discussion.” —Booklist “This sweet extended metaphor uses an umbrella to demonstrate how kindness and inclusion work...A lovely addition to any library collection, for classroom use or for sharing at home.” —School Library Journal In the tradition of Alison McGhee’s Someday, beloved illustrator Amy June Bates makes her authorial debut alongside her eleven-year-old daughter with this timely and timeless picture book about acceptance. By the door there is an umbrella. It is big. It is so big that when it starts to rain there is room for everyone underneath. It doesn’t matter if you are tall. Or plaid. Or hairy. It doesn’t matter how many legs you have. Don’t worry that there won’t be enough room under the umbrella. Because there will always be room. Lush illustrations and simple, lyrical text subtly address themes of inclusion and tolerance in this sweet story that accomplished illustrator Amy June Bates cowrote with her daughter, Juniper, while walking to school together in the rain.