Being small can be overwhelming in a city. People don’t see you. The loud sounds of the sirens and cyclists can be scary. And the streets are so busy it can make your brain feel like there’s too much stuff in it. But if you know where to find good hiding places, warm dryer vents that blow out hot steam that smells like summer, music to listen to or friends to say hi to, there can be comfort in the city, too.
Sydney Smith’s first picture book as both author and illustrator is an absolute stunner and a deserved winner of the Kate Greenaway Medal. This is an atmospheric story in which a young boy navigates a cold and bustling city, offering gentle advice on the city’s hidden ‘spaces’ such as which alleys to avoid and where to find the very best hiding spots.
What begins as a guide to being small in a big world slowly reveals itself as a message to a lost pet. The illustrations play with light and shade to capture the urban landscape from a child’s perspective, as we know children of course notice different shapes and spaces to an adult observer. A thought-provoking book and a beautiful choice for primary children of all ages to explore empathy and visual storytelling.
A resource pack provided by the publisher to accompany the book Small In the City.
review
Year group(s) the book is most suitable for:
Year group(s) the book is most suitable for:
Does the book contain anything that teachers would wish to know about before recommending in class (strong language, sensitive topics etc.)?
Does the book contain anything that teachers would wish to know about before recommending in class (strong language, sensitive topics etc.)?
Would you recommend the book for use in primary schools?
yes
Curriculum links (if relevant)
Curriculum links (if relevant)
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Any other comments
