Joanna Francis, Lucia and Lawrence, New Frontier Publishing, June 2018, 28pp., (hbk), ISBN 978-1-925594-15-7
When Lucia notices her neighbour Lawrence, she is keen to introduce herself and become friends. She soon discovers that Lawrence likes different things – especially numbers and cardboard – and is very shy. That doesn’t stop Lucia from wanting to show Lawrence all the wonderful ways she likes to play and from inviting him to her birthday party.
Can Lawrence overcome his shyness and go to the party? Will Lucia find a way to be friends in spite of their differences?
Joanna Francis highlights the wonderful relationship between two young friends and celebrates their similarities and differences in her first picture book. Cleverly weaving creativity and art as tools for inclusiveness, Joanna makes an important contribution to the special needs picture book landscape.
Delightful illustrations capture Lucia’s rambunctious personality, against Lawrence’s quiet side with subtle colours and tone. The mathematical anecdotes throughout and on the inside covers add a unique touch celebrating Lawrence’s affinity with numbers.
Children will embrace Lucia’s fun and bubby nature, and relate to Lawrence’s shyness. Early childhood educators, primary school teachers and librarians will find this a beneficial resource that tackles inclusiveness, special needs and the power of creativity in navigating challenging situations. A hint of right and left-brain theory is also thrown in for anyone who loves science.
This is a wonderful book teaching us all about the importance of celebrating diversity and fostering acceptance, and the magic that can occur when we rise above the challenges.
A special read indeed, for each and every one of us.
Reviewed by Shelley Stephens
