Review by Maia Dueck
Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
PUB date: Jan 23, 2024, Picture book, 40 pages
ISBN: 9781665911269
Price: CAN $23.99
Ages/grades of target audience: ages 4-6
Genre: children’s fiction
“IT’S FAMILY TIME. We roam like bison in a big herd, ready to graze. We share everything family style, and there are never any seconds. I announce, “I got a part in the play!” But no one hears me. Sheeeesh, is this… too much sharing?“
Getting any role in the school play, big or small, is a big deal, but finding a way into the spotlight at home is a struggle for Russell within his big, fun, and vibrant Native family. As the play approaches, Russell fails to get his family’s attention. He begins to wonder, is it time for Russell to shine on his own and give up on his wish for his family to notice him? Or will he manage to succeed and get his family to cheer him on before it’s too late?
Right off the bat, Bridget George’s beautiful illustrations drew me into this sweet tale of family and finding one’s way even when it all seems “too much” for one person to find their voice. Reality mingles with sweeping, dreamy illustrations that give the book an ethereal feel. In one particular scene, translucent blue bison swim in the sky like constellations, surrounding a boisterous and joyous family of siblings, parents, and grandparents gathered around the table. In another, sea creatures seem to float off the page as the characters visit underwater exhibits, creating a visually striking page appealing to readers of all ages who enjoy searching for details. In that spread, readers can find hidden details in the sea of navy blue.
The family relationships featured in Too Much are the heart of this book. Warmth emanates from the cast of secondary characters uplifting Russell as he navigates his own relationships. I found myself engaged in the story and yearning for the protagonist to find his groove in his family, as well as in the play he performs in. All the ups and downs in Russell’s journey speak to the often turbulent journey of a child’s life, and help build a protagonist that younger audiences can see themselves in while pointing to resolution through the reconciliation of family relationships.
This story centres Native characters, experiences, and joy, providing a wholesome and honest perspective of navigating family relationships and finding one’s voice. This is an enlightening and endearing picture book that I would recommend to parents, educators, and teachers seeking stories addressing themes of family, support, and learning how to let the people around you see you shine!
Maia Dueck is an avid reader and writer currently enrolled in the Creative Writing program at UBC. Her favorite trope is probably enemies-to-lovers.
YOUNG ADULTING 