Forever and Always

A young Black child waits for—and worries about—her father while he's away from home in this lyrical picture book from two breakout Black picture book creators. A sensitive, poignant portrayal of a family's worries, joys, and comforts to sit alongside books by Jacqueline Woodson and Christian Robinson.

Every night when Daddy gets home from work, Olivia soaks him in a big hug and knows that the evening will be full of love—and fun. Together, she, Daddy, and Momma will make a feast for dinner, clean up, dance to old-school tunes, and read stories. But every morning when Daddy goes to work, Olivia worries, worries, worries. Be safe, she and Momma tell him. But what if he isn’t? Sometimes other people aren't, like the one on Momma's phone. Thud, thud, thud, goes Olivia’s heart, thump, thump, thump, all through the long day, until she hears the jangle of Daddy's keys, announcing he’s home.

Brittany Thurman’s poetic text deftly explores the day-to-day life of a young Black child and her family—their joys and their fears—with a rhythm and musicality perfect for reading aloud. Shamar Knight-Justice's expressive artwork sings with color, texture, and warmth. Forever and Always respects the deep emotions of young readers, while offering comfort and reassurance to any child waiting for a loved one to come home. For readers of Saturday; Nigel and the Moon; and The Year We Learned to Fly.

Brittany J. Thurman is the author of the picture book Fly and the middle grade novel Fearless: Boulevard of Dreams, written with Mandy Gonzalez. She is a former children’s specialist, dedicated to ensuring children’s literature truthfully reflects the world in which we live. Brittany Thurman holds an MFA in dramatic writing from Carnegie Mellon University and a BA in theater from Kingston University, London, England. She is an avid traveler and has lived in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, but now resides in her hometown of Louisville, Kentucky

Shamar Knight-Justice is an illustrator and educator based in Atlanta. His artwork focuses on mixed media and unique textures and patterns. Shamar intentionally highlights Black and Brown children in his work because he wants the fullness of their identities to be celebrated in picture books. He is the illustrator of Ari J.’s Kinky, Curly Crown; Big Tune: Rise of the Dancehall Prince; and Repeat After Me: Big Things to Say Every Day.

...Thurman's lyrical text, paired with Cunha's stunning illustrations, generates an empowering and uplifting experience. The spare, matte illustrations presented in airy panoramic spreads of earth tones and pastels create a spectacular visual. The rich and beautiful chalk like textures showcase children of various skin tones, all with happy faces and prominent rosy cheeks, emphasizing joy. Beautifully written and
illustrated, this is one to be cherished.--Booklist