Attention, little explorers! Whether your kiddos are fans of outer space or the deep dark sea, one thing is certain: they will adore Hannah Barnaby’s newest picture book, Garcia & Colette Go Exploring. With adorable illustrations by Andrew Joyner, this book hits all the right notes, highlighting themes all of our kids love including adventure and, most importantly, friendship.
In Garcia & Colette Go Exploring, the two title characters are having quite the disagreement. Garcia the bunny think space is the coolest, but Colette the fox thinks the sea is where it’s at. In order to determine whether space or sea will come out on top, the two decide they must go exploring… alone. Garcia builds a rocket and Collette builds a submarine, and the two embark on their own fantastic adventures to prove to the other that their chosen location is the best. But as they travel, both discover that winning may not be the best answer- especially if it comes at the expense of friendship.
Garcia & Colette Go Exploring is just the sweetest, with illustrations that can’t help but bring a smile to your face. I love the parallel structure in which the book is written as it so perfectly emphasizes the differences in each character’s journey but also conveys the loneliness each feels without the other. But more importantly, I adore what happens when Garcia and Colette are reunited. Rather than lie and boast about their adventures, they practice honesty and are not ashamed to admit the shortfalls of their respective journeys. It can be quite challenging for our little ones to refrain from “one upping” their friends, but Garcia & Colette Go Exploring handles what could be a sticky situation just perfectly. Even better? The compromise the characters come to at the end of the book.. and the recognition that a friend at your side makes every journey (even one that wasn’t your first choice) that much better. Two enthusiastic trunks up!
RELATED: We’ve got all the best children’s books for you on Happily Ever Elephants, so be sure to check them out!
Want the book? Get it here! Garcia & Colette Go Exploring, by Hannah Barnaby. *This is an affiliate link.
Leave a Reply