cover image Whatever Comes Tomorrow

Whatever Comes Tomorrow

Rebecca Gardyn Levington, illus. by Mariona Cabassa. Barefoot, $17.99 (32p) ISBN 978-1-64686-841-4

In rhymes that first acknowledge and then reassure, Gardyn Levington counsels fortitude in the face of the unknown. Following “Tomorrow may bring,” examples paint a picture of possible highs and lows in scenarios involving “feelings/ that will need some extra space.” Cabassa employs crayons, gouache, pencils, and water-based paints in bright artwork that echoes the text’s embrace of change with patterns and markings that curve and flow. Supporting scenes feature individuals with varying skin tones confronting the unfamiliar, from a new hairstyle to a new baby. Acknowledging how natural it is to have anticipatory concerns (“Tomorrow may bring anything—/ you have no way to know”) concluding prose cheerleads, highlighting the need to endure in this message-forward work for worried readers. Creator notes are included, as well as “tips for managing worries.” Ages 4–9. (Mar.)

Update: This review has been updated to reflect the book's final text.