Book Review: Here & There by Thea Lu 🌊
I was so fortunate to snag a copy of Here & There by Thea Lu at the NCTE conference, and I can confidently say this picture book is a gem. It’s a quiet, reflective story of two men living vastly different lives—Dan, a café owner rooted in a small seaside town, and Aki, a sailor who drifts from place to place. Through poetic language and stunning illustrations, Thea Lu contrasts their lives in a way that feels deeply personal yet universal.
Dan stays put; people come to him. Aki goes; he seeks people out. At first glance, their lives couldn’t be more different, but as the story unfolds, their similarities emerge: both grapple with moments of isolation and wonder about the lives they didn’t choose. It’s a beautiful reminder that we all crave connection, no matter how we choose to live.
What sets Here & There apart from other books about contrasts is its subtle focus on individual lives rather than broad cultural comparisons. It’s an introspective exploration of rootedness and adventure, and how we often need a little of both. Lu’s storytelling invites readers—young and old alike—to pause and reflect: Who am I? Am I more like Dan or Aki? And what does that mean for the way I see the world?
This is a story about appreciating the small moments: a friendly face, a shared memory, or even a fleeting connection that lingers. Thea Lu’s poetic writing and rich illustrations encourage us to cherish the beauty in our everyday choices and relationships.
Highly recommended for readers of all ages, Here & There is a book that lingers in your heart long after you’ve closed its pages. It’s a celebration of connection, community, and the quiet beauty of being human.
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