Taking the Long Way Home

About this book

Usually, when Daddy collects Zahra and her brother from school, he’s always in a hurry to get home. He likes to find ways to get home as quickly as possible, rushing them through shortcuts. 

But today, Uncle Jerome is picking them up and he’s not in a hurry at all. In fact, much to Zahra’s dismay, he suggests they take ‘the long way home’.

Though reluctant at first, the siblings are soon caught up in amazing adventures, as their uncle gets them to use their five senses to conjure up a world of fun and imagination. When birds become swooping pterodactyls and ripples in the water become snappy crocodiles, this ordinary walk back from school turns into a super-sized adventure.

Highlighting the power of imagination, Taking the Long Way Home celebrates the awesome adventures that can be found in the small everyday moments. 

Jake Hope’s fun story is paired with energetic doodle-like illustrations that are both detailed and expressive. It’s fantastic to see two positive male role models in the dad and uncle, both spending time with the kids, and to depict a mixed-race family.