Description
Last to hatch, little Julian is behind the other peachicks. He can’t speak. He can’t fly. He longs to catch up to the others. But how much time will it take? In this uplifting story about a late-bloomer peacock, Julian learns that with a little encouragement and a lot of patience, even he will one day be ready to bloom.
Written by Phoebe Fox and illustrated by Melissa Bailey, this book is recommended for ages 8 and under.
“In this simple, beautiful fable, the author aptly presents a peacock’s developmental journey as a metaphor for growth, beginning with Julian’s genuine longing to mature and ending with him realizing his potential. Bailey’s illustrations, with their muted colors, accentuate the narrative’s gentle theme while appealing to a young audience—especially those who might be smaller in stature or longing to grow like their bigger siblings, neighbors, or friends. A comforting reminder to young ones that, with patience, growth will come.” – Kirkus Reviews
“Though embracing what makes you different is a common theme in children’s literature, the focus on being a late bloomer sets Julian Blooms apart, as Fox takes opportunities to lightly touch on other often related topics, such as sibling rivalry (Julian is always depicted in opposition to his brothers) and self-doubt. The shifting color palette gives nonverbal clues to readers that Julian is not only growing up, but also gaining confidence, just by looking at his colorful feathers and the suddenly lush ferns surrounding the banyan tree he finds refuge in throughout the story.Simple in concept but thoughtfully executed, Julian Blooms is a heartfelt and uplifting read for any reader who struggles with concerns of not being like others or feeling behind in development. Julian is an easy character to root for, with his oversized glasses, small body, and charming face, even readers fortunate enough to feel confident in themselves will find empathy for the little bird. Included at the end of the book are facts about peafowl, including the difference between peahens (females) and peacocks (males), and what they eat. This is a quiet but powerful story that belongs in the hands of any late bloomer and those who love them.” – Book Life
