Common Sense Media Review
By Diondra Brown
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Heartfelt picture book about finding joy when plans change.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 3+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
WHILE WE'RE HERE follows the story of a mother and daughter duo as they rush out of their house and through the hustle and bustle of the city. They navigate busy train stations and vast spaces, even losing a shoe along the way—all in an effort to attend a birthday party. Much to their dismay, they realize the birthday was yesterday. Instead of dwelling in their disappointment, they slow down and enjoy an unexpected adventure. The pair spends the day together exploring the city, appreciating nature, and witnessing each other's moments of joy.
Is It Any Good?
A vibrantly illustrated reminder to slow down and find joy in life's small moments, even when things don't go according to plan. While We're Here strikes a perfect balance between simplicity and meaningful life lessons. Author Anne Wynter offers a fun, repetitive rhythm, "Hurry, hurry…" that makes it especially engaging for young readers, while its themes of mindfulness and appreciating playful everyday experiences resonate with the whole family. Micha Archer's gorgeous cut-paper pictures bring the city setting alive and are full of details for little readers to pore over. The daughter's disappointment and the mother's stress over juggling responsibilities and schedules feel authentic and relatable across ages. A warm, thoughtful, and visually appealing book.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how, in While We're Here, things don't go as planned for the mother and daughter, but they still find ways to enjoy their day together. Have you ever had plans change in a disappointing way that ended up turning into something unexpectedly fun or meaningful? Sometimes unexpected changes can lead to experiences that are even better than what you originally imagined.
It's important to be grateful for the time we get to spend with our loved ones, even if it looks different than what we originally planned. What does gratitude mean to you?
The book's illustrations combine collage-style textures with kaleidoscopic patterns and colors. Which page is your favorite, and what stands out to you about it?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Micha Archer
- Genre : Picture Book
- Topics : Adventures , Family Stories
- Character Strengths : Gratitude
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Clarion Books
- Publication date : March 24, 2026
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 4 - 8
- Number of pages : 40
- Available on : Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books
- Award : Common Sense Selection
- Last updated : July 28, 2026
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