“Hear: the doors we open for each other all day, saying: hello / shalom / buon giorno / howdy / namaste / or buenas dias…”

There are hidden gems to be found in any library’s poetry section, many beautifully illustrated picture books interspersed with anthologies old and new. I admired Richard Blanco’s reading of this original poem at President Obama’s 2013 inauguration and here it is rendered for little lap-sitters through Dav Pilkey’s evocative paintings. The short verse spans time and place across one day in America, an homage to our industry, hopefulness and diverse landscape and population.

I recommend this book for all ages. It is best enjoyed when read in a quiet, contemplative time, perhaps early in the morning or late at night. Enjoy it with someone who still fits on your lap.