We're Moving House

November 1, 2024
A misunderstanding leads to disappointment as a family prepares to relocate. When Mom announces that the family will be moving, the literal-minded young narrator is initially thrilled. The child imagines what moving will look like: A "very big truck with a very big engine" will lift the home up, transporting it to a new neighborhood. They'll need cranes, the child decides. And they'll have to warn the owner of the nearby cafe to move the chairs and lampposts out of the way. The child pictures the house traveling on a boat over a river and a sea and by helicopter over mountains ("I hope I get to stay in our house while it's being moved"). Upon discovering that the house won't be coming with the family, the child frets. Soon, though, the little one realizes that "no matter where we live, the thing that matters most is that we have each other." While the child's anxiety about moving is relatable, the emotional resolution feels a bit rushed. Still, the book's clever premise, endearingly sincere narrator, and beautifully rendered world make this a visual and textual delight; the whimsically childlike illustrations are particularly impressive. Tenderly imaginative and moving.(Picture book. 3-7)

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February 1, 2025
Preschool-Grade 2 A misunderstanding about what exactly ""moving house"" means leads a young boy to imagine all the journeys he and his house will go on once the move is set in motion, from waving to his neighbors as he and his house are driven away to floating across a river in his not-quite houseboat. The simple, childlike illustrations, with bold colors and loose yet expressive figures, really underscore the sense of creativity and wonder that transforms a misinterpretation into a series of increasingly whimsical scenarios. The book doesn't stay in the realm of fantasy forever, however; once the protagonist realizes they'll actually be leaving their house behind for a new home, common anxieties around moving, like a loss of familiarity and the sense of safety that can come with it, are explored and eased. Perfect for fans of Amelia Bedelia-style literal thinking, this offers a playful yet comforting take on moving for little ones nervous about big changes.

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February 28, 2025

PreS-Gr 2-When a young child hears that their family is "moving house," they immediately envision a grand operation involving cranes, helicopters, and giant trucks to physically move the entire house to a new location. As the child narrator, who has tan skin and black hair, learns that "moving house" means that their family is leaving and not taking their house along, extravagant plans give way to worry, and excitement for the move wanes. However, Mom reassures the child that while they're moving to a new home, they'll be bringing all their belongings and, most importantly, will still have each other. With cheerfully toned illustrations in soft pastels, dominated by pinks, oranges, and teals, fantastical ideas are brought to life with a lighthearted touch. Outlandish scenarios that may elicit some giggles quickly turn to a more tender discussion of what it might look like to move. This inclusion of both silly and sincere not only highlights the confusion a change like this might cause, it also provides a window into the unending capacity of a child's imagination. VERDICT For families about to move or in the middle of one, this could serve as an engaging conversation starter on what such a change might mean; consider purchasing for larger public library collections.-Louie Lauer

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