Here and There (The 2024 New York Times / New York Public Library Best Illustrated Children's Books)

The 2024 New York Times / New York Public Library Best Illustrated Children's Books

A thoughtful book that will resonate with travelers, homebodies, and anyone who's ever longed for an old friend or a new journey.

Dan is the owner of a caf? living in a small town on the coast. Aki is a sailor on the sea, traveling from place to place. Dan loves his familiar views and enjoys welcoming visitors from far away. Aki loves the wonders he sees abroad and enjoys meeting new people in distant lands. Though Dan likes his life, and Aki likes his life, they each feel so alone sometimes. But every once in a while, separate lives can collide and make the world feel large and small all at once.

Following the parallel stories of Dan and Aki, Here and There introduces readers to two contrasting yet connected characters. Thea Lu's evocative text and art will spark lasting conversations about home, travel, and the similarities between very different people.

Thea Lu is an illustrator, designer, and picture book maker. She earned an MA in design strategy from China's Tsinghua University and an MA in children's book illustration from the Cambridge School of Art. Thea's work has won the Sebastian Walker Award in the UK and has also been honored in Italy, Poland, and China. Here and There is her debut picture book. Thea currently lives in Shanghai. Visit her website at thealu.net or follow her on Instagram @lu_thea.