“Nothing Special is a lovely story capturing the beautiful relationship a child can have with his grandparent - and how time together with loved ones can exceed your wildest expectations. With mesmerizing artwork and warmth reverberating within each page, this is a book to be read and cherished with the ones you love.”

“A heartfelt ode to the simple, forgotten pleasures of ‘going home’— to old places, bygone times, and circles of love. Sloane’s rich and tactile illustrations perfectly complement Cooper’s warm and affecting prose.”

“From fishing for crabs to wishing on shooting stars, everything Jax and his elders do together is magical. Unique textile-rich graphics turn this sweet tale of generation-spanning affection into something truly special.”

“This heart-warming and gently paced story is a perfect read aloud, sure to be a bedtime (or any calm-down time) favorite. Kids will feel welcomed along on Jax’s visit to his grandparents’ Virginia home, and will marvel at the tactile crafted art, which literally stitches together the theme that there’s just ‘something special’ in taking the time for homemade fun.”

“At its heart, Nothing Special is a tribute to the pilgrimage South that Black families make to remain connected to our kin and our history. For us, that is something very special.”

“The inventive and unique illustrations in Nothing Special perfectly complement the warmth of this story about a childhood rite of passage familiar to many African Americans—summers spent revisiting our southern roots. Nothing Special is a joy to experience!”

“This story of black family love is disarming in its simplicity: young Jax has traveled south for a summer visit with his grandparents, and he unwittingly becomes immersed in the joys and adventures that are part of the life of his beloved PopPop and Nana. Desiree Cooper’s use of language and rhythm is captivating. And she creates a scenario that can be treasured across generations and cultures as Jax emerges with an appreciation for life’s simple pleasures.”

“Desiree Cooper’s Nothing Special reminds us that the simplest things in life are the ones that mean the most, especially when accompanied by love. Bec Sloane’s exuberant illustrations evoke a vivid patchwork dream quilt. A treasure!”

“Such a heartwarming story. Soft childhood memories of visits with grandparents have been brought to life so beautifully in handcrafted textures. All the little details make me want to touch the page!”