Written by: Kate Dopirak

Illustrated by: Christopher Silas Neal

For ages: 3 years and up

Language: English

Topics Covered: Mindfulness, Social-Emotional Learning, Kids Outdoors, Observation, Nature. 

Summary: 

This is a really adorable book that follows a child who always does everything quickly, because there is always a reason to hurry up.  Hurry out of the house, hurry around the classroom, hurry to take the dog out!  Until…STOP! Let’s find a reason to slow down and take a break.  Let’s enjoy nature and observe the scenery around instead of speeding right by.

Hurry Up! is a book that celebrates mindfulness and living in the moment, appreciating the beauty of nature all around. I really like how well the illustrations portray the hurrying up with wild hair and frantic expressions, it’s very relatable!  The second half of the book where the child is practicing mindfulness and enjoying the moment are so joyful, inspiring readers to go explore outside as soon as finishing the book.

Mindfulness has many benefits for children, as does being able to play in nature.  The story focuses on appreciating the small beautiful moments that can come from sitting on a porch watching fireflies, and how it will ultimately a better life than rushing around everywhere. As someone who is really missing going on a slow walk outside in nature areas right now, I’m looking forward to not being stressed out about leaving the house.  Fortunately, we do have a small backyard which has been lovely to spend time in.  Overall, this book is absolutely adorable and fantastic for prepping young readers about to go on a nature walk!

This book was sent to us by our friends at Simon & Schuster, but all opinions are our own! It is being released tomorrow, May 19th.

About the Author & the Illustrator:

Kate Dopirak was a celebrated author of children’s books, teacher, mom and overall ray of sunshine. She left this world too soon and with much more to accomplish. Together we continue her mission and commitment to creating sincere connections with children through the power of books.

Supporting Kate’s books helps to support her mission and spreads smiles to homes everywhere. Buy or donate to extend the impact of her words.

Christopher Silas Neal is an award-winning author and illustrator of picture books including Over and Under the Snow with author Kate Messner, which was praised for its “stunning retro-style illustrations” (New York Times) along with Over and Under The Pond and Up In the Garden and Down in The Dirt. Neal’s author debut titled “Everyone” was praised by Publisher’s Weekly as “simple, honest, lyrical”. His board book series (Animals Colors, Animal Shapes) received starred reviews from Publisher’s Weekly and Kirkus. He creates book jackets, art for magazines and posters. He speaks about his books, the art making process, and his career at schools, conferences, libraries and book festivals across the country. He lives and works in Brooklyn, NY.