Leitner, Inbal. Longest, Strongest Thread, The. Inbal Leitner, Illus. Charlesbridge, 09/2022. [32]pp. Picture Book. GRADES Preschool – 3. HIGH ADDITIONAL. Trade $16.99. 978-1-62354-359-4.
Originally published in Great Britain in 2020, a granddaughter is moving away so grandma explains that they are still connected, even though they will be far apart. Their favorite place is grandma’s sewing studio, demonstrating the metaphor that they are connected by an invisible thread of love. The unusual illustrations use soft colors and collage elements on stark white backgrounds, reinforcing the symbol of fabric and thread for their connection, and depicting the two family members as white. A quiet story that will resonate with many children who live far from their grandparents.
Penny Peck, San Jose State University iSchool