M. Garcia’s realistic digital art heightens this visual interplay between metaphor and reality while also showing the close relationship between a child and her grandfather. Although the text never mentions death, the book could certainly be used to open a discussion on the subject between an adult and a child. In a note, the author discusses how her mestizos (Spanish and American Indian) heritage informed the perspective of the story. (Ages 4-7)

All Around Us begs to be shared over and over. The use of lines and strokes conveys energy, spirit, magic. And I love the way it connects us all to the idea that we come from inside, from the earth, from something gentle and primal, and that is where go back to—and we better take care of it. Yuyi Morales

All Around Us is a quiet, beautiful story, and is highly recommended. De Colores

The author’s direct approach and light touch soften the otherwise weighty subject matter. ... Life-affirming in its quiet splendor. Kirkus Reviews

All Around Usis all about connections, graced by ethereal images—the perfect children’s book for this season of celebrating endings and new beginnings. Lone Star Literary Life

A girl and her grandfather contemplate circles, both physical and metaphorical, in this thought-provoking tale of family, community, and interconnection. Publishers Weekly



It’s gorgeous, quite frankly. Elizabeth Bird, School Library Journal