Staff Pick
Wow. This NYT's Best Illustrated Book of the Year immediately took hold of my heart. The gritty yet warmly nostalgic illustrations lead us along a narrative that changes course to give way to new meaning toward the end. An unforgettable classic in the making, it felt quietly powerful and moved me nearly to tears. I absolutely loved it. Recommended By Heather A., Powells.com
Synopses & Reviews
Winner of the Governor General's Literary Award
A Publishers Weekly Best Book of the Year
A Kirkus Reviews Best Book of the Year
A School Library Journal Best Book of the Year
A Horn Book Best Book of the Year
A Washington Post Best Children's Book of the Year
A New York Times/New York Public Library Best Illustrated Book of the Year!
It can be a little scary to be small in a big city, but this child has some good advice for a very special friend in need.
It can be a little scary to be small in a big city, but it helps to know you're not alone.
When you're small in the city, people don't see you, and loud sounds can scare you, and knowing what to do is sometimes hard. But this little kid knows what it's like, and knows the neighborhood. And a little friendly advice can go a long way.
Alleys can be good shortcuts, but some are too dark.
Or, there are lots of good hiding places in the city, like under a mulberry bush or up a walnut tree.
And, if the city gets to be too much, you're always welcome home, where it's safe and quiet.
In the first book that he has both written and illustrated, award-winning artist Sydney Smith spins a quiet, contemplative tale about seeing a big world through little eyes.
Review
"Some picture books make you want to hug them to your chest and not let go until the fullness in your heart subsides. 'Small in the City', a work of surpassing poignancy and understanding by Canadian author-illustrator Sydney Smith, is one of them." The Wall Street Journal
Review
"Small in the City is full of faith and compassion, and gorgeous to look at, as well." The Washington Post
Review
"This emotionally resonant ode to the resilience of small creatures in a big, loud world is tender and timeless — and a masterful merging of art and text." The Horn Book (Starred Review)
Review
"Small in the City is the best picture book I've seen so far this year, and among the most moving I know. For the right child it will be revelatory." The New York Times Book Review
About the Author
Sydney Smith is an illustrator of picture books whose work includes The White Cat and the Monk by Jo Ellen Bogart; Smoot, A Rebellious Shadow by Michelle Cuevas; Sidewalk Flowers by JonArno Lawson; and Town Is By the Sea by Joanne Schwartz, which was awarded the 2018 Kate Greenaway Medal. His accolades include two Governor General's Awards for Illustrated Children's Books and four New York Times Best Illustrated Children's Book of the Year citations. He lives in Toronto, Canada.