Simone

Praise

A Best Picture Books of 2024 — Bookshop.org

★“Stunning…. a powerful, multilayered depiction of an increasingly common situation.” – Kirkus Reviews, STARRED

Tattered Cover Bookstore Picture Book of the Month

“[A] soft, tender picture book … reminding readers of the hope found in connecting with and leaning on others….Exciting reading…that celebrate[s] the Asian American experience.” –
San Francisco Chronicle

“A  thoughtful and emotionally intense family story ….Phan’s colored pencil and watercolor palette gorgeously interprets the book’s themes….The illustrations combine with Nguyen’s words—“It’s up to us”—to offer a vision of hope and healing in the wake of generations of displacement.” – Book Page


“A touching story about having to leave your home in haste…. shows the importance of art in our lives in the most difficult moments. Absolutely gorgeous illustrations.” – Katie Fransen, The Novel Neighbor, St. Louis, MO

“★★★★★ Kids will be enthralled with the real life drama, and how a child has a part to play in keeping hope….Perfect for readers who like realistic stories, especially about disasters, for ages 5-9. Great for classroom.” —Youth Services Book Review

“So full of heart and kindness and joy. I was so moved…the illustrations are beautiful and the words flow so neatly….This one is winning awards. I’m sure of it.” — Lindy Wilson, librarian

“Touching.” – Booklist

“Evocative….Phan’s inventive illustrations … introduces a full rainbow spectrum of experience.” – Publishers Weekly

“Addresses climate change, displacement caused by natural disaster, and Vietnamese history and culture…with the most gorgeous illustrations… the author addresses everything beautifully…..A book you just must check out!” – diversify.our.parenting

“A book one doesn’t see coming, Simone glows like a small, steady flame of childhood agency.” – School Library Journal