A Day in the Sun

Starred review from June 19, 2023
Using flat, graphical forms and a limited palette of blues, greens, and oranges, Ejaita creates visually striking digital spreads that show largely fancifully hued children around the world experiencing the sun’s light. On an early page whose locale is labeled as Japan, sunlight wakes two children, one of whom stretches while the other snuggles in. In another, children wearing sunglasses cavort on a playground in Brazil: “The Sun helps to lift our mood, so we feel ready for fun!” Writing in the voices of children in various countries, Ejaita catalogs all the sun does, from providing shadows to feeding “our trees, our air, and our water,” underscoring individuals’ enjoyment of the sun’s intergalactic gifts. Ages 3–5.

Starred review from March 15, 2023
The many brilliant ways the sun lifts, warms, and nourishes the world. Spanning morning to night, with each spread featuring children in a different country, this book introduces readers to the sun. With short, graceful text and retro illustrations featuring bright, bold shapes, this is a science--and culture--lesson for the youngest set. Beginning in Madagascar, the sun rises over a child in bed while rainforest animals peer in through the window. "Good morning, Sun!" Next is Japan, with two tots stretching from their futons on the floor, ready to start the day. "The Sun tickles our eyes / so that we wake up // and lights our table / while we have breakfast." At the morning meal, readers are swept to Iran, where a youngster eats at a low table with many colorful dishes. Readers visit 14 countries in total, from Mexico and Italy to Mali and South Korea, each with the golden sun shining in the sky. Ejaita juxtaposes warm yellows and oranges against cool turquoises and blues; each burst of color radiates energy. The science is kept simple yet is still informative ("The Sun feeds our trees / our air, // and our water"). The warmth of the subject matches the warmth that pours from the pages. The characters have skin the (many and vibrant) color of the pages. (This book was reviewed digitally.) Absolutely shines. (Informational picture book. 2-5)

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November 17, 2023

PreS-K-A compelling exploration of how the sun influences and governs our daily lives and actions in the most positive ways. This beautifully written book delves into the reach of the sun on activities ranging from swimming to agriculture, offering readers a deeper understanding of the vital role it plays in our world. What truly sets this book apart are its exceptional illustrations. Ejaita skillfully uses color to represent diverse cultures worldwide, showcasing the universal connection we all share with the sun. Each page is a visual feast, with rich and vibrant hues that draw readers into the heart of various global traditions and practices. The book educates but also inspires, as a testament to the shared human experience and the beauty of cultural diversity. VERDICT This book is a visual delight, leaving readers with a true appreciation for the sun's role in our daily existence and its power to unite us across continents.-Jessica Calaway

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