Title: Hello Up There!
Author: Judi Buenaflor
Publisher: PageTurner Press and Media, LLC
ISBN: 978-1649088062
Pages: 30
Genre: Children’s Illustrated / Animals Books
Reviewed by: Jack Chambers
Pacific Book Review
Something that has always been super tough for people to do in times of distress or trouble has been to hold onto hope in their lives. From ailments that force us to remain in quarantine to wars that ravage entire nations for pointless reasons, the world is filled with troubling news and hardships which can make holding onto hope a difficult task for anyone. One thing in particular which has always been hard to remain hopeful through is a physical injury or ailment that forces us to adjust our lives in some way. As Franklin D. Roosevelt once said, “We have always held to the hope, the belief, the conviction that there is a better life, a better world, beyond the horizon.”
In author Judi Buenaflor’s Hello Up There!, the author explores the concept of hope and overcoming great odds in a moving children’s book. The story follows a young boy who has lost his ability to walk, and finds his world turned upside down. Feeling sad but still smiling and making the most of his world, the young boy joins his mother on a day trip to the zoo, where he meets the local giraffe. While at the zoo, the world in which the boy lives that has seemed so small since his loss suddenly opens up when he befriends the giraffe, changing everything he thought he knew.
The author did such an incredible job of adding so much depth and emotion into such a short narrative. While the harmony and narrative felt very natural and simple as most if not all children’s stories are supposed to be, the rich themes and imagery that the author employed here showcased a heart and passion which will definitely translate to readers. The discussions and messages this narrative inspires is fantastic to read, as it helps children to come to an understanding and firmer grasp of those who are disabled and unable to participate in the world in the same manner as others, while the story also touched upon themes of curiosity, imagination, and creativity which are so crucial to a child’s development.
This is the perfect read for those who enjoy children’s books, especially those that have been illustrated and hold short narratives with powerful messages. As a fan of stories like this, the author did a wonderful job of creating a heartfelt and uplifting message for young readers while also entertaining with their story and warm illustrations.
Engaging, thoughtful, and uplifting, author Judi Buenaflor’s Hello Up There!, is a definite must-read story. The warm and comforting illustrations mixed with the hopeful and emotional storytelling and thought-provoking and inspiring themes that readers can share with their children, this story is the perfect combination of good story meets heartfelt connections between children and the adults in their lives.
