The Big Umbrella

Illustrator Bates applies her signature watercolor, gouache, and pencil style to a quiet story about a smiling umbrella, inspired by a conversation with her seventh-grade daughter and co-author, Juniper Bates.

The big, red umbrella near the front door loves to spread its arms wide and give shelter, welcoming everyone in regardless of their appearance or characteristics.

As the umbrella grows in size with each turn of the page, it becomes a metaphor for kindness and inclusion, providing shelter to all, including a diverse group of individuals like a basset hound and people of different skin colors and abilities.

While not explicitly political, the story resonates with current events and serves as a gentle reminder of the importance of inclusivity and openness.

With engaging watercolor illustrations, the story follows a child carrying an open umbrella down a city street, gradually inviting more and more people to take shelter under its protective canopy.

The visuals create a warm and cheerful space under the red umbrella, symbolizing boundless inclusivity and creating opportunities for discussions about kindness and community-building.

The book's message is direct yet not didactic, making it a valuable addition to any library for sparking conversations about acceptance, kindness, and the power of inclusion.

Amy June Bates, the author-illustrator, has a remarkable portfolio of illustrated books and hails from Carlisle, Pennsylvania, where she lives with her family.

Juniper Bates, Amy's daughter and co-creator of The Big Umbrella, was in sixth grade when the idea for the book originated during a rainstorm. Their collaboration resulted in a heartwarming tale that reminds readers of the importance of generosity and acceptance.