Spendin’ Time

In a sweetly sensate picture book by Gray Jr. (I’m From) and Jomepour Bell (Where I Grew), a simple grocery run unfurls into a brimful, golden day for a child “spendin’ time” with their grand- father. Following the yellow-clad narrator’s sunrise arrival to Granddad and Nan’s, experiential perceptions layered with affably offered values describe a trip to town. As the Black child and grandfather ride in a station wagon, Granddad honks a “Beepity Beep” and urges the child to wave to neighbors: “These folks are all your family around here.” When the child asks after their errand, slowing phrases (“No rush, son! We’re just spendin’ time”) lead to detours including berry picking (“Can’t let these go to waste”), casting a line into a secret trout stream (“Stay sturdy”), and an ice cream stop (“You deserve a treat”). Finally, a sundown market stroll yields a bounty (butter “yellow as the sun,” “honey in mason jars”) before the two return home to the aroma of Nan’s apple pie. Golds, pinks, and reds permeate acrylic and soft pastel landscapes, lending a feeling of warmth to this roundly rendered tribute to the treasure of unhurried time with loved ones. An author’s note concludes. Background characters are portrayed with various skin tones. Ages 4–8. Author’s agent: Steven Malk, Writers House. Illustrator’s agent: Christy Ewers, CAT Agency. (May)