When the Wind Came

Jan Andrews and Dorothy Leung’s When the Wind Came is a powerful, evocative picture book about a destructive storm and its impact on a young family. Told from the first-person retrospective perspective of one of the family members in the path of the storm, the book contains spare prose and understated, but dramatic, illustrations. The girl protagonist remembers joining her parents and her baby brother in taking shelter from the approaching storm. Later, they emerge from their bunker to discover their home has been destroyed, but, with the right attitude, they can put the storm behind them and start afresh.

The design for When the Wind Came is one of many strengths of the book. The end papers feature dry swirling leaves pushed ahead by the storm. When the family takes shelter in their bunker, a black double-page spread is devoid of anything but the words, “I remember sitting in the darkness.” The written text is large and clear and easy to read. It is all very well done and reflects a commitment to excellence that is a hallmark of many of Kids Can Press’ books for children.

Jan Andrews’ written text is almost poetic in its beauty and power. Through careful word selections, much is conveyed with few words. Of course, elimination of any superfluous words can transfer even more responsibility to the illustrator to carry the burden of the storytelling. In this regard, Leung’s artwork matches Andrews’ writing superbly. The images of the black storm clouds, leaves, and dust swirling towards the terrified family work wonderfully to convey their dread and sense of pending doom.

The artwork was created with pencils and paint. Leung’s colour palette consists primarily of browns and cool colours like muted blues and greens. Being so small, the vibrant reds of the truck taillights in the final image are subtle; however, they are key components of a final image that is a little warmer and, thus, more hopeful. The taillights suggest troubles are behind the family as they drive towards a sunset sky touched with soft pink. What lays ahead is a brighter future than the ruins of the past. The red taillights also mirror the wildflowers depicted in the opening scenes, before the arrival of the storm. It is a clever way to use colour—and its absence—to magnify the contents and tone of the story elements on each page.

When the Wind Came will appeal to young children because of its drama. It will appeal to parents and caregivers because of its evocative power. Children and adults alike will enjoy its quality. This is a beautiful book about family, resilience, hope, and the indomitable spirit of people determined to endure by staying together.