Hide & Seek Beautiful

This is a soft and gentle picture book, reflected in both the text and the images. I was surprised to learn that the pictures were created digitally, as I thought they were watercolours. It is the perfect book to share with a child when their friend moves out of town, however it may be necessary to point out that not all friends may come back to visit, as Boo did. Equally, this could be used with a child encountering grief when a loved one has passed away, although it will be important to discuss that the loved one will not return.

Beautiful language is used throughout, especially when Annie notices the beauty around her - "swirls of purple", "whorls of white", "icing-sugar sprinkle" and "cheeks kissed pink". The illustrations give a sense of peace and calmness.

This book is a lovely reminder that we should all take a look at the beauty in everyday things around us.

Supporting teaching notes are available on the Scholastic website.