If you’re looking for a picture book that captures the joy of preparing for a new child, you will not be disappointed with today’s review! Just like all little ones, We’re Happy You’re Here by Julie Wilkins and Brady Sato is a “perfect mix of science, wisdom, and love.”
Title: We’re Happy You’re Here
Author: Julie Wilkins
Illustrator: Brady Sato
Publisher: Orca Book Publishers
Published: March 12, 2024
Format: Picture Book
Written in an epistolary format, We’re Happy You’re Here offers a glimpse into different families’ journey to welcoming a child, and all the care that adults put into creating a family. Brady Sato’s stunning illustrations provide a modern image of the many different ways families can look (including single parents, LGBTQ+ parents, and more). They also blend seamlessly with Julie Wilkins’ lyrical text.
We’re Happy You’re Here is a great introduction to a new sibling, or for starting a conversation about your child’s unique journey to your family. There is even a Discussion Guide on Orca’s site with thoughtful questions to help facilitate these conversations.
The official release date for We’re Happy You’re Here is March 12, 2024, but you can preorder your copy and support independent bookstores at Bookshop.org. You can also find it on Amazon, or request it at your local library.
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About The Author:
Julie Wilkins is a storyteller and entrepreneur. The owner of Little Bookshop, an independent bookstore where her passion for inclusive and diverse literature comes alive on the shelves, Julie is excited to be finding her own voice as an author. We’re Happy You’re Here is her first book. Julie lives in Squamish, British Columbia.
About The Illustrator:
Brady Sato is a Japanese Canadian illustrator who specializes in digital illustration. They developed an appreciation for visual storytelling from watching TV shows and reading manga as a child in Japan. Brady studied visual narrative at TAD in Austin with Pixar artist Kelsey Mann. They are the creator of the popular webcomic All That You Are, and the first picture book they illustrated, Kunoichi Bunny, was named one of the New York Public Library’s Best Books for Kids in 2022. Brady lives in Canmore, Alberta.