Going Up!

Going Up!

An elevator ride to a birthday party turns into a shared experience bursting with joy in this multicultural story about community, togetherness and the special feeling of belonging. Today is Olive’s birthday party, and Sophie and her dad have baked cookies. Sophie’s dad holds the platter so Sophie can push the elevator button for the tenth floor. But on the way up, the elevator stops to let the Santucci brothers get on. Then on the next floor, Vicky, Babs and their dog, Norman, get in. And as the elevator ascends, it keeps stopping, and more neighbors squeeze in to the crowded space: the Habibs, the Flores family, Mr. Kwan, Vi Tweedle with her Chihuahua, Minx. Everyone is going to the party! Playfully combining the excitement and anticipation of a party with children’s universal love of riding in elevators, Sherry J. Lee’s picture book story is ultimately about community and a sense of belonging. With characters from many cultural backgrounds, it showcases the everyday diversity that many urban children experience. Charlene Chua’s illustrations provide loads of funny details and visual narratives that aren’t in the text, making for a multilayered reading experience. The book’s tall, narrow trim size adds to the effect of the rising elevator. [A] thoughtfully inclusive story of friendship and respect across differences.― Kirkus Reviews ... enticing ...― Publishers Weekly ... an engaging picture-book debut ...― The Globe and Mail A celebration of diversity and a lively portrayal of neighborly conviviality at its best, this story will put readers in a party mood, wherever they live.― School Library Journal ... a wonderful storytime book ...― CM Magazine Sherry J. Lee has worked in the book industry for many years, first as a bookseller and then in publishing. Sherry lives in Toronto with her husband. Going Up! is her debut picture book.