Rebecka Sharpe Shelberg is a librarian, children’s author and general book enthusiast, who lives in Sydney, Australia, with her bearded husband, two small mischievous children, two fluffy dogs, and a bearded dragon. Though she is obsessed with books of all kinds, she is particularly enamoured with picture books and would happily spend an entire day (and a year’s salary) in a good book store. Her first picture book, Reflection, was a CBCA Notable book for 2017.
Andrea Edmonds is an artist and illustrator who has worked on children’s books, greeting cards, stationery, commissioned artworks and animation. She loves developing story and character ideas fuelled by a stash of dark chocolate and countless cups of tea.
Setting out to visit their loved one, a child curiously asks a fellow commuter, ‘Who are you going to visit?’, and in answer to this simple question, the child learns about the love and loss in the life of a stranger. A father who lives apart from his small daughter, a husband who has lost his wife, a granddaughter who is forgotten by her grandfather, and a mother who fears for her son’s recovery. After each conversation, the child understands that the other commuter has someone in their life that they love ‘as much as I love you’, and it is this understanding that allows the child to explore the most universal of human experiences: the power of love in the many different forms that it can take. Visiting You also explores a sense of community. Under her mother’s supervision, a young child reaches out and connects with the people around them; they’re not scared of strangers, or people who might ‘look’ scary, or people who are different to them. Sometimes it can take conscious decision and determination to look past outward appearances. Visiting You encourages us to find the similarities between people instead of focusing on differences, to recognise some part of ourselves in the life of a stranger.
Just So Stories, June 2018
Included in a review of books that help develop empathy in children.
“A beautiful exploration of acceptance and the power of love.” – Click here to read in full.
Boomerang Books, June 2018
Included in a review of books about incredible journeys
“I love the message of … connecting with ourselves through others. Of cultivating empathy; a mindset we should all aspire. Visiting You encapsulates this mindset exceptionally well. Full marks.” – Click here to read in full.
Reading Time
“The common theme among all the memories and relationships is the element of love and longing for those we love when we’re apart; and how sharing and basking in memories can make us feel connected with those we long to have near. ” – Click here to read in full.
Educating Young Children
“Looks at differences with compassionate eyes.” – Click here to read in full.
Miss Jenny’s Classroom, March 2018
“This is one of those books that would suit any classroom at any time but perhaps would be most beneficial to read during the start of the year and during Harmony Day celebrations. A truly beautiful book that I am proud to own.” – Click here to read the review in full.
Bottom Shelf Teacher, March 2018
“This focus on our similarities rather than our differences is a familiar theme of many stories for children, but Visiting You stands out as it looks beneath the surface to our emotions and helps us understand that really, all you need is love.” – Click here to read the review in full.
Jnr Bookworms Book Review, March 2018
“a beautiful story about not judging people on their appearance and the importance of listening.” – Click here to read the review in full.
Book Trailers for Kids and YA, March 2018
“What makes this special, is that the child, just by talking with strangers, is making a difference. We are reminded that we are all connected. A sweet story with a message we all know but sometimes it doesn’t hurt to be reminded. The illustrations have lots of yellows and oranges creating a lovely sunny day feeling.” – Click here to read the review in full.
Kid’s Book Review, March 2018
“I’m calling it. This picture book is flawless. Visiting You is one of those magical picture books that clings to your heart and soul. The story stays with you long after you close the cover, and you’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again.” – Click here to read the review in full.
Blue Wolf Reviews, March 2018
“The book has delicate paint wash illustrations that suit the tone of the story well. There is a gentleness and positivity about the story, and the colours reflect this.” – Click here to read the review in full.
School Days Magazine, February 2018
“Visiting You explores a sense of connection, not be scared of strangers or to judge people who may look different … A good book to show children that despite appearances people have similar qualities as their own. Illustrations are thoughtful and gentle to compliment the story and the message.” – Click here to read the review in full.
Boomerang Books Blog, February 2018
“The gentle balance of colour and emotion reveal memories and the child’s growing understanding that he need not fear strangers who appear gruff and scruffy, different and intimidating. That beneath the obvious differences of a person, there often dwells a story worth sharing and a reason to love. This is a mighty concept to grasp in our modern day world … it promotes a phenomenal sense of humanity, of not judging a book by its cover.” – Click here to read the review in full.
At the Table Magazine, May 2018
Andrea and Bec at last night’s book signing for Visiting You.
Hosted by the lovely people at Dymocks Rouse Hill!
