Mommy's Hometown

A child visits their mother’s hometown and is surprised to find it now differs from her recollections. . . The pair make their own memories in this special place, reinforcing that it is familial bonds and unconditional love that define home rather than physical surroundings. A tranquil warmth radiates from the illustrations. . . An uplifting, intergenerational story.
—Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

Lim poignantly explores the tension between new and old in this setting-oriented tribute to family bonds. . . . Moving smoothly between rural and urban environments, Kim’s carefully illuminated digital graphics play dexterously with shadow, adding drama to the duo’s journey.
—Publishers Weekly (starred review)

This picture book is bittersweet, highlighting a touching bond between mother and son as they reminisce over the past and embrace the present. . . Jaime Kim’s digital illustrations highlight the stark differences between the new and the old. . . will likely resonate with viewers sharing a similar background.
—The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

Readers are treated to sumptuous full-page spreads devoid of text, where they can linger and imagine, like the child does, a carefree life in a beautiful place. . . . This gentle, layered story will resonate with imaginative readers as it shares a message of optimism and beauty.

—Booklist

This picture book lends itself nicely to compare and contrast, then and now, as well as talking about what happens to the landscape when concrete and buildings take over. . . beautiful.
—School Library Journal

As peaceful and gentle as that glowing sky, ‘Mommy’s Hometown’ is a gorgeous ode to home, family, the things that change and the things that stay the same.
—The Virginian Pilot