Book Review: It Was Supposed to Be Sunny by Samantha Cotterill
There’s something undeniably magnetic about books that center around the joyful unpredictability of childhood, and Samantha Cotterill’s It Was Supposed to Be Sunny seized my attention like an unexpectedly warm summer breeze. As an adult who often finds herself yearning for the carefree days of my youth, stories that capture those fleeting moments resonate deeply with me. Cotterill does just that, inviting readers into a world filled with anticipation, change, and the ultimately liberating realization that sometimes, joy can be found in unexpected places.
At the heart of this delightful picture book is Lizzie, a young girl whose excitement for a sun-kissed day at the beach is palpable. With her family, she dreams of building sandcastles and splashing in the ocean’s waves. But, as the story unfolds, the hopeful forecast of sunshine is thwarted by clouds and rain. What I found incredibly moving about Lizzie’s journey is how she and her family navigate this disappointment. Rather than succumbing to frustration, they adapt, discovering joy in jumping over puddles and digging in the wet sand. The vibrant illustrations by Cotterill not only complement this narrative beautifully but also bring to life the somber shades of gray that transition into splashes of color and joy as Lizzie learns to find delight in the unexpected.
One of the book’s key themes is the importance of adaptability, a lesson that often feels elusive in our fast-paced, meticulously planned lives. With each turn of the page, my heart warmed as Lizzie began to embrace her surroundings rather than resist them. The pacing is seamless; the narrative flows with a gentle cadence that mimics the ebb and flow of ocean waves — a perfect companion to the story’s setting. The conversational tone Cotterill employs, with relatable thoughts and emotions, made me feel like I was witnessing a tender family moment unfold right before my eyes.
One memorable moment that stood out to me was when Lizzie, initially disheartened, proclaims, “We can still have fun together!” This simple yet profound realization encapsulates the essence of the book. It’s a reminder that while life may not always go according to plan, the people we share those moments with can turn them into something wonderful. It’s a sentiment I found deeply comforting, especially in times of personal uncertainty.
It Was Supposed to Be Sunny is perfect for young readers and their families, particularly those who are navigating the ever-changing landscape of childhood emotions and expectations. I believe this book could serve as a gentle tool for parents to introduce the idea of flexibility in our plans, making it an excellent addition to any child’s bookshelf.
In conclusion, this lovely story not only enchanted me but also left an imprint on my heart, reminding me of the importance of finding joy in life’s little detours. If you’re a parent, caregiver, or simply a lover of the simple yet profound moments that life gifts us, I wholeheartedly recommend picking up a copy of It Was Supposed to Be Sunny. You’ll discover that sometimes, even when clouds roll in, it can still be a brilliant day at the beach.
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