One day by Shirley Marr and Michael Speechley

What would you do if, like the mayfly, you only lived for one day? Would you let the pessimism of the frog who tells you that "the world will eat you up" send you scurrying to the shelter of the pond to spend your life in safety (assuming the frog isn't the 'world' that eats you), or do you put on your party hat and decide to make the most of it regardless?

This is one of those books in which text and illustration are so closely woven that one doesn't work without the other. Printed so that you have to turn it around to read it, each double page spread celebrates a little girl's journey through life as she sets out on this "map with no set destination." Watched over by her grandparents, and through clever wordplay that Speechley has integrated in the names of the buildings we follow June as she follows the mayfly's discovery of the city and her own familiar paths of A1 Daycare, Daylight Primary, Day Street High School, Juan Dei University, jobs, travel, as well as surprises around unexpected corners, celebrating and enjoying the time that is given her because every moment is precious.

Like the mayfly who has such limited time (and is aware of that) but who is undeterred by the frog's prophecy and determined to make the most of the time it has, June, too, is determined to make the most of the time she has, also undeterred by negativity, and not intimidated by circumstance or surroundings. Who, among us, would have the courage to choose between The Daily Grind, Day Job Corporation, and Dream Job Ltd, especially if Dream Job is as limited as its name implies?

This is a story of optimism, positivity and belief that introduces young readers to the passage of time - an abstract concept that is tricky for little ones - but can also encourage deep conversations with those who are older. Recent news bulletins in which significant world leaders have said their countries "are preparing for war" sent shivers down my spine, so how must our young tweens and teens be feeling? If it's not the power-brokers sending the world to hell in a handbasket, then the planet is doomed from an environmental perspective anyway so perhaps this is an opportune time to ponder if we only have one day, do we spend it in despair or delight? What does the Latin phrase Carpe Diem mean?

Definitely one to add to the mindfulness curriculum for all ages to initiate discussion and perhaps inspire a different mindset, maybe even a more positive lifetime choice. A story time kit is available.

Themes: Mayflies, Insects.

Barbara Braxton