Review of I Am Stuck by Julia Mills
Sometimes a book arrives at just the right moment, capturing a sentiment we didn’t even know we needed to explore. Julia Mills’ I Am Stuck, set to release in September 2023 from HarperCollins/Clarion, hooked me from the moment I laid eyes on its vibrant cover. As someone who deeply appreciates stories that blend humor with heart, I was compelled to dive into this charming tale of companionship and resilience.
At the heart of I Am Stuck is a turtle who quite literally finds itself in a difficult situation—stuck on its back. My heart immediately went out to this little creature, as I could relate to feeling helpless and anxious at times. The exchanges between the turtle and various animal characters that wander by are particularly poignant. While they each offer advice, it’s the insightful possum who truly makes a difference. "Are you playing possum?" the turtle asks, capturing the playfulness that permeates this engaging narrative. The possum’s reassuring presence serves as a reminder that sometimes, we don’t need solutions as much as we need someone to share our burdens.
Mills’ writing is refreshingly straightforward, making it accessible yet richly layered. The pacing is gentle, allowing young readers—and adults, honestly—to digest the themes of fear, empathy, and overcoming challenges. One passage that struck me was when the possum assures the turtle, “You don’t have to be alone.” It’s a mere sentence, but its power resonates deeply; it gracefully captures the essence of friendship and support that we all crave during tough moments.
The illustrations are nothing short of beautiful. The turtle’s watercolor shell shines against the soothing, mostly-white backgrounds, creating a striking visual juxtaposition that adds to the emotional depth of the story. This visual storytelling enhances the narrative, making it not just a read but a sensory experience. As the turtle learns to embrace laughter even amidst its predicament, I found myself cheering it on wholeheartedly. “We did it!” the characters exclaim in glee, reminding us that triumph often comes with shared joy.
Indeed, I Am Stuck is not just about feeling stuck; it’s about recognizing that togetherness can truly flip our circumstances around. These uplifting concepts are beautifully rounded out with advice for anyone feeling lost—encouraging readers to tap into their senses, reach out, and take a breath. It leaves a reassuring imprint that reflects on the importance of connection in overcoming life’s challenges.
This book is perfect for young readers, educators, and parents seeking to spark essential conversations about feelings and support systems. It will also resonate with anyone who has ever felt a bit lost themselves. The gentle humor and heartfelt moments truly make this a treasure to share with loved ones.
In a world where isolation can feel prevalent, I Am Stuck serves as a reminder that reaching out and laughing together can create change—often in the most delightful ways. As I closed this book, I felt a warmth in my heart, convinced that perhaps we all have a little bit of turtle and possum within us, navigating life’s ups and downs. Julia Mills has gifted us a charming addition to our shelves, one that leaves us hopeful and connected.