BLUE! A Powerful Portrait of Realism and Magic!

LITTLE, BROWN, and COMPANY, 2025

My own writing is currently toggling between fiction and nonfiction projects, with careful attention to when and how various aspects of each interact or affect the purpose of the particular writing. In the case of BLUE, written and illustrated by best-selling Suzanne Kaufman, I found myself considering those two sides of this remarkable and beautiful new release. It's grand example of how a seemingly simple fictional talecan provide elaborate informational content through visual detail and superb storytelling.

Although I'd love nothing more than to be a visual-arts creator, especially one of this calibre, such skills do carry with them the mixed blessing of having your amazing illustrations nearly overwhelm equally gorgeous text. That's especially true when the text has been honed to such excellence. Not a syllable or word or line is used more than necessary to enhance and ignite even further the jubilant scenes and storytelling of the visual narrative. 

A stripe-shirted, high-booted universal-ish child and an utterly authentic BLUE HERON engage in  displays and activities that reveal the nature and brilliance of both species. Readers splash right onto the page for an exuberant celebration of friendship and shared joy.

Only because i have lived on a waterfront with some nearly-tame herons would I imagine this is anything other than fantasy. Instead, I see it as magical realism, with depictions of authentic  encounters, images, interactions, posturing, and scenes that ultimately extend into fantastical imaginings. 

Within the cycle of a full day, the adventures resolve into a powerfully soothing, peace-filled bedtime conclusion.

As noted, the images alone provide that story, beautifully and naturally. Yet the superbly suited minimal text makes the experience even more engaging. Take time to appreciate the ways in which this talented artist structured a timeless story to voice to her imaginings. The perfect balance of eyes and ears, of action and mood, of excitement and calm are worthy of appreciation. I'll continue to wish for such artistic talent for myself, while feeling deeply grateful for those who have and share their art and storytelling with the rest of us. Don't miss this one.