Finding Beauty Together: A Review of Miss Rumphius
As a mom, I cherish those quiet moments when the chaos of the day melts away, and we can settle into a warm cuddle with a good book before bedtime. Recently, during one of those cherished moments, my daughter and I discovered Miss Rumphius by Barbara Cooney. With her big brown eyes filled with curiosity, she leaned closer to the pages, and I found myself drawn back to my own childhood—a time when I first encountered Alice Rumphius and her beautiful dreams.
In this beloved classic, we meet Alice, a spirited young girl who dreams of traveling the world, living by the sea, and, most importantly, making the world a more beautiful place. Her adventures lead her to scatter seeds of lovely lupines wherever she travels, leaving a colorful legacy of flowers that bloom along the coast of Maine. It’s a simple yet profound message that resonates with both young and old: we all have the power to leave a positive mark in this world, no matter how small.
What captivated my children and me the most were Cooney’s stunning illustrations. The colors burst off the page like spring flowers breaking through the soil. My son, in particular, was fascinated by the vibrant depictions of flowers and the inviting landscapes. He softly exclaimed, “Mom, look at all those colors! Can we plant some flowers too?” This opened up a delightful conversation about planting seeds—both in our gardens and in our hearts.
One of my favorite exchanges came when my daughter pointed to a page showcasing an older Alice, surrounded by her beloved flowers. “Will I get to do that too, Mommy?” she asked, her eyes alight with possibility. We talked about dreams, growing up, and how our actions, no matter how small, can lead to beautiful change. It was such a joyful realization for both of us, making this book not just a lovely read but a meaningful moment of connection.
The writing is as gentle and inviting as a breeze on a summer day, really drawing the reader into Alice’s world. The story flows smoothly, perfect for reading aloud, and I found myself easily swept away with each turn of the page. Even after we closed the book, the conversation continued; my kids were eager to hear more about the real Miss Rumphius, wondering if she still scattered seeds.
Miss Rumphius has quickly become a family favorite and a staple on our bookshelf. I highly recommend it for children aged 3 to 8, but even older siblings or parents will find value and inspiration in its poignant theme. It’s a reminder that while life may get busy, there’s always time to pause, reflect, and, perhaps, plant a few seeds of our own.
In a world that often feels chaotic and overwhelming, this book is a gentle nudge to recognize the beauty around us and nurture it. So, next time you’re looking for a story that fosters curiosity, love for nature, and the importance of kindness, Miss Rumphius is your go-to. It’s not just a one-time read; it’s a book we’ll cherish and revisit often—together.
