Bingham’s melodic first-person text elegantly captures the juxtaposition of Jamar’s highs and lows. . . . Radiant portraiture of the all-Black cast makes breathtaking use of light and perspective. . . . This resonant and blessedly concrete addition to picture books on death suits all collections . . . this is another powerful collaboration, following The Table (2024), co-authored by Wiley Blevins. A profoundly moving child-centered perspective on grief.
—Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
[A] tender story. . . .
—Publishers Weekly
Mixed-media illustrations combine what look like paper-cut collage and photographs with realistically drawn portraits, often cropped in close to dramatic effect. . . . This gentle and genuine story is a worthy update to the shelf that helps children cope with loss.
—School Library Journal
A moving foreword reflects on the power of art and words to heal, honor, and inspire—qualities that resonate throughout this heartfelt story about grief and gratitude. . . . Rich mixed-media illustrations layer original sketches, soulful portraits, and collaged flowers, adding warmth and emotional depth to this tender story.
—Booklist
This is a poignant reflection on unexpected loss that manages to capture the complexities of grief without dwelling in melancholy, as the cheerful faces and welcoming demeanor of many of the patients buoy the narrative tone. While the text is focused on the immediacy of Jamar’s feelings rather than the residents’ backstories, viewers get to see Miss Neely, Mr. Dillon, and Mr. Riff as whole people, undefined by whatever challenge has landed them in Momma’s care. A variety of mediums create strikingly unique illustrations. . . .
—Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books
Painterly illustrations reflect the intimate tone of this moving picture book about grief, goodbye, and what remains.
—Foreword Reviews