The Silence Slips In

Hughes treats silence—which can connote loneliness and solitude—as a source of solace and strength in this quiet story. In hazy, jewel-toned spreads, Pelletier personifies Silence as a fluffy, cloudlike being with round ears and rosy cheeks. The figure accompanies a child with dark hair as she sweeps up after a birthday party, makes snow angels, practices yoga, and embraces other solitary moments. Silence isn’t the only visitor. At bedtime, Silence “greets its friend the Dark. They bring warm, soft blankets and settle in.” Hughes gently alludes to the benefits of finding contentment in quietude and how learning to do so might benefit readers for years to come. Ages 3–5. [em](Mar.) [/em]