Kirkus Review

A quarantined child uses her imagination and plays with friends in this picture book. Elia is disappointed that she can't go to school or have outdoor adventures because of "the germs." Mom tells her that for now, she has to have imaginary escapades. On her terrace, Elia hears pals Emi and Eric on the balcony above encountering a sea monster. Elia's "imagination surges" and she joins in, envisioning a komodo dragon. Elia and next-door balcony neighbor Mikayla play virus hunters and disinfect their surfaces. Next, Elia imagines a "Balcony zoo." She hollers for the others to join in on the fun. Each kid brings a unique spin to the zoo. Akash, below on the street, imagines wearing rocket shoes and flying up, and Emi and Eric hope to dock an alien spaceship. Elia says, "Everyone is welcome" but "No germs allowed." Enthused by her friends' originality, Elia can't wait for tomorrow's caper. Harder's enjoyable story will be relatable to young readers in similar predicaments. Elia is a resourceful protagonist whose spirit and inventive ideas will surely inspire the audience. Regan's delightful, cartoonish illustrations depict a diverse cast and vivid scenes in the characters' imaginations, like gigantic animals on Elia's balcony. They include witty details; for example, Elia's shirts change to match each adventure. The images also incorporate Covid-19 staples like masks and disinfectant spray. The lively work includes three "Activity Pages" at the end. An engaging tale that emphasizes the importance of creativity and strong connections during a pandemic. Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.