The Home that Love Built

The main theme that shines bright in this book is the immeasurable sense of community. Meserve brings different animals of all sizes and species together to rebuild their homes. The kindness throughout is warm and feels like a hug. There is a tower-like image of all the animals sleeping on top of a dam they rebuilt. The peace amidst the chaos of the storm is striking. A moment to pause and appreciate the beauty of a community coming together in time of crisis.

The art style is inviting for young readers. The use of multiple double-page illustration lends space for the reader to meet the animals and peek into their homes. The natural colours — especially the greens, yellows and reds — are soothing and adds to the homey vibe. The animals’ big wide eyes are my favourite element of Meserve’s artistic style. It personalises them as characters and creates a humanistic approach to the story; animals have homes just like we do, and there is room for all. The change in perspective throughout is a lovely touch. The end pages of the forest from afar is reminiscent of the classic ‘once upon a time’ and ‘the end’. The first few pages introduce readers as it zooms out: from the falling raindrop, insects and mice in the long grass, to the storm and birds in their nests, and then the lightning and thunder as the larger animals huddle. 

So, if you ever see a home in need of rebuilding in the nearby forest, make sure you do your part to help out!