Review: The Umbrella


The term umbrella can mean many things. Ostensibly, protection, shelter, inclusion, unification. All admirable qualities, ones that entice a visit within. Trouble is, not all umbrellas are of equal size. Not all possess the capacity to encompass those that perhaps are in greatest need of them. And yet, as is oft the shared human condition, we all at some point crave to fit under that mantel of shared connection – to fit in. And those that appreciate this inherent desire better than any other are children.

This is the core of Niki Foreman and Binny Talib’s stunning new creation; an exploration of a young person’s observation of their social standing, their subsequent efforts to change it and their eventual realisation of self.

Characterised by a non-gender specific child, the realities of not quite fitting under the umbrella is apparent from the get go. Our main character has but their robust raincoat and desire to join those comfortably already under the umbrella, noticeably without any other protective wear to shield them from external elements.

But there is little room left. No matter how differently they approach this dilemma the result is the same. Even when others, also stuck out in the rain appear, similarities aren’t always strong enough to make a perfect fit. Another's umbrella may not be your best option no matter who is underneath it.

Thankfully, rainbows often follow storms, which is where this episode of searching and loneliness eventuates. None of us can predict how long a downpour will last, but with the right protective gear and enough resolve to see you through, there is every chance you will find your fit. Or in this case, wait for others to eventually see and appreciate your true colours.

Deceptively simple in its narrative delivery, The Umbrella addresses many of the multiple complexities young children face every single day, whether in the playground, school yard or even home life. Need and want for sameness are constantly at odds with yearnings for unique independence. Unravelling the nuances of self-appreciation and acceptance for a young child especially one that falls under their own neurodivergent umbrella, is no straightforward task. The Umbrella does so eloquently without fuss or explicit direction, thus allowing youngsters to question and comment on each scene for themselves. A boon for deeper classroom discussion!

From endpaper to endpaper, Talib’s illustrations of wide-eyed beings each finding their own way through the emotional downpour inspire instant connection. Bright pencil drawn colours temper mood with just enough white space among the linear-shaped, rainbow-coloured raindrops to encourage room for reflective thought. I especially enjoyed the silent sub character of a macintosh-clad pussy cat.

The Umbrella works because it is extravagantly simple; an ideal mix of elegant, playful ambiguity and raw, detailed complexity that many from the age of four will find easy to appreciate.

Title:  The Umbrella
Author:  Niki Foreman
Illustrator:  Binny Talib
Publisher:  Penguin Random House, $24.99
Publication Date:  3 March 2026
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781761348242
For ages:  4+
Type:  Picture Book

Buy the Book: Penguin Books Australia   

 

 

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