The Blue Table (Hardback)

“A blue table symbolizes and facilitates the connections among family members and between friends. . . . [Raschka’s] paintings reflect the action and objects described while adding nuance and detail. . . . A charming and cozy celebration of the places and routines that anchor and connect us.”   — Kirkus Reviews (starred review) “Spare text and images center the titular cerulean table, around which a small family—and later, a second—gathers to share meals and gratitude. . . . Caldecott Medalist Raschka showcases tabletop objects and dishes . . . in colorful illustrations crafted from watercolor and cut-paper collage . . . A gentle picture book that celebrates the joy to be found in both everyday routines and holiday abundance.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review) “A simple story of gathering and gratitude. . . . Bright watercolor pictures will offer opportunities to engage young readers in discussions about what the pictures mean and what they might enjoy for a shared meal. . . . [A] story with an indelible blue table as its hearth.” — School Library Journal “Minimal text treats a compact blue table as the center of a holiday as a family gathers . . . Raschka’s fluid watercolors balance the dreamy with the homey . . . A gentle early treatment of holiday gatherings.” — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books “Watercolor and collage illustrations match the text’s simplicity . . . The most pleasing arrival is anticipated by wordless pages in which the table is extended to accommodate ‘one more family.’ . . . Evoke[s] any occasion of togetherness, perhaps providing comfort and hope.” — Horn Book Magazine