Our Table by Peter H. Reynolds
Violet, a girl with purple-hued hair, notices something bizarre is happening in her home. The family dinner table is shrinking. Eventually the table becomes so small that it vanishes. So... she goes in search of answers. When she sneaks a peek at dad, he's watching big screen entertainment. Mom is fixated on her phone and brother is playing games on a tablet. She wonders: is there a way to get back the table? This resourceful youngster has a plan. Drawing upon the unique talents and interests of each family member, Violet enlists their help. Together, they design and construct a new table that will unite them. Color is a key component of the narrative. When technology dominates individual lives, Reynolds monochromatic palette is based on shades of purple. When the family is seated around the table, illustrations are in full color. |
| This picture book is filled with charming touches: Violet sports a massive tool belt. The dog helps hold a measuring tape, and sneaks treats beneath mom's chair. The cat on the cover smiles knowingly at the audience. A timely and timeless reminder of the importance of disengaging technology and engaging with family and friends. Reynolds offers a gentle tale of building and maintaining personal relationships. |
Our Family Table
When is a family tradition nontraditional? When birthdays are honored with a child's hand painted plate, and we eat ice cream cones instead of cake. | What can a gathering without a table look like? Groups toasting marshmallows around an outdoor fireplace. |