Together We Are Sunshine

Sunshine becomes a metaphorical thread connecting three brown-skinned sisters during a frolicsome afternoon in Thompkins-Bigelow’s aptly written portrayal of sibling dynamics. Middle child Haala provides narration, expressing admiration for older sister Sanaa, the group’s de facto leader, and impatience with younger sib Munira, who struggles to keep pace. While Munira’s eager attentions and reactions repeatedly draw rebuke from the speaker, the eldest sibling’s easygoing manner becomes a model that eventually draws the family together. “Her smile gives me some of her shine,” Haala says of the eldest child, before paying that kindness forward to the youngest. When a storm rolls in, the trio attempt to magic away the clouds, winding down to a close that echoes the title’s luminous sentiment. Employing digital techniques and watercolor textures, Figueroa captures the girls’ expedition with brilliant coloring and etchinglike details that convey the ebullience of both the outing and the siblings’ connection. Ages 4–8. (Oct.)