So Much [UPDATED • 2024]
Since "So Much" most commonly refers to the award-winning children's picture book by Trish Cooke and Helen Oxenbury, or the acclaimed novel So Much Blue by Percival Everett, I have provided detailed reviews for both below. 1. So Much (Children's Picture Book)
Trish Cooke uses a repetitive, musical structure that makes it a perfect read-aloud for toddlers. So Much
Trish Cooke (Writer), Helen Oxenbury (Illustrator) Genre: Juvenile Fiction / Family Summary: This rhythmic, cumulative story follows a mother and baby at home when their large extended family begins to drop by one by one—Auntie Bibba, Uncle Didi, Nannie, and Gran-Gran—all eager to squeeze and kiss the baby "so much". Since "So Much" most commonly refers to the
Percival Everett Genre: Literary Fiction Summary: The novel centers on Kevin Pace, a 56-year-old painter who is working on an enormous secret canvas that he will show to no one. The story alternates between three critical periods of his life: his current life in Rhode Island, a past affair in Paris, and a dangerous 1979 trip to El Salvador. Review: So Much Blue by Percival Everett Review: So Much Blue by Percival Everett It
It is a vibrant celebration of Black family life, focusing on unconditional love and the joy of being "utterly adored". The story is gentle and humorous, capturing the overwhelming but sweet energy of a big family gathering.
Helen Oxenbury’s artwork is praised for its warmth and charm, bringing out the distinct personalities of each relative and the playful expressions of the baby.
Highly recommended for ages 2-5, it is considered a modern classic of diverse children's literature. 2. So Much Blue (Contemporary Novel)