Review by Publisher's Weekly Review
A child endeavors to identify the lyrics of a beloved tune in this affecting picture book, which matter-of-factly addresses an experience of memory loss. Caius's neighbor, Mr. Johnson, vocalizes each morning, but he never finishes the song, explaining that he's "lost the rest" of it. Inspired by warm memories of singing with his own grandfather, Caius heads to the library to uncover the work's lyrics, searching among hymnals ("Their presence is as powerful as the stories they tell") and listening to albums ("The bass makes the air vibrate like a thousand protestors marching toward equality"). When his research fails to turn up any leads, the protagonist despairs until a familiar voice provides him with a gift he shares with Mr. Johnson. Gouache and digital illustrations by Orlando incorporate flowy pattern- and texture-filled renderings that amplify the uplifting qualities of Vanece's simile-filled text. An endnote contextualizes the featured American Southern gospel hymn. Characters cue as Black. Ages 5--8. (Oct.)
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Review by School Library Journal Review
Gr 2--5--Intergenerational stories can be a gift, and this is one of those books. It creates a comforting bubble--one where neighbors look after each other, where communities exist to help, and where the lines connecting everyone are crystal clear. The story immediately introduces Caius. He's a young Black child who enjoys visiting his neighbor, Mr. Johnson, who also has brown skin. Gently, readers learn of Mr. Johnson's dementia from the way Caius introduces himself each day while asking Mr. Johnson to sing an unfinished song. The situation is treated as very matter-of-fact and without fear, just simply depicting that Mr. Johnson's memory is waning. In fact, the diagnosis fosters connection, as Caius sets off on a journey to find the missing end to Mr. Johnson's song. He checks in with the library, with historical records, and with wise family members. What ensues is a tender journey of discovering roots and appreciating the past. The folksy art complements that tender touch, showing the warmth of sepia-toned ancient memories and the lush bloom of the recent past. Through it all, music intertwines with story like vegetation, showing the growth and nourishment of an art form. VERDICT A powerful tale that demonstrates the connective power of music and memory, as well as an appreciation for the strength of tradition passed through generations.--Cat McCarrey
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Review by Kirkus Book Review
A young Black boy visits his neighbor each morning, only to find that a cherished gospel hymn has slipped from the older man's memory. Caius, who used to sing frequently with his grandfather, knows that songs can be memories that "make even the coldest day feel like summer." Determined to help Mr. Johnson, Caius embarks on a quiet search--reading books, listening to records, and, finally, talking to his grandmother--to recover the lost lyrics and, in doing so, preserves a shared piece of cultural history. Enhancing the story, an author's note frames gospel hymns as a longstanding tradition in Black communities, linking past to future and bridging generations. Vanece also explores the history of the song in question, "Further Along," once heard in churches and later recorded by artists from Sam Cooke to Dolly Parton, adding depth and cultural resonance to the narrative. Orlando's warm illustrations deepen both the hymn and the story, layering emotional texture with historical detail and a vivid sense of the present. Vanece's prose demonstrates how a child's unprompted empathy and support for an older neighbor can make a meaningful difference in both of their lives. Also commendable is how the story quietly reflects the reality of many children's lives by depicting a nontraditional family structure (Caius lives alone with his grandmother) without making it a point of conflict or focus. A tender portrayal of a child's bond with an elderly neighbor.(Picture book. 4-7) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
