Going Up! - by Sherry J Lee (Hardcover)

About the Book

"Sophie and her dad have been invited to their neighbor Olive's birthday party, on the tenth floor of their apartment building. They bake cookies, which they put on a special platter, and then head to the elevator. At each floor, the elevator stops to let in other party guests. Along the way up, the elevator gets more and more crowded as a diverse cast of neighbors squeeze in. What will be waiting when the elevator reaches the tenth floor?"--

Book Synopsis

An elevator ride to a birthday party turns into a shared experience bursting with joy in this multicultural story about community, togetherness and the special feeling of belonging.

Today is Olive's birthday party, and Sophie and her dad have baked cookies. Sophie's dad holds the platter so Sophie can push the elevator button for the tenth floor. But on the way up, the elevator stops to let the Santucci brothers get on. Then on the next floor, Vicky, Babs and their dog, Norman, get in. And as the elevator ascends, it keeps stopping, and more neighbors squeeze in to the crowded space: the Habibs, the Flores family, Mr. Kwan, Vi Tweedle with her Chihuahua, Minx. Everyone is going to the party!

Playfully combining the excitement and anticipation of a party with children's universal love of riding in elevators, Sherry J. Lee's picture book story is ultimately about community and a sense of belonging. With characters from many cultural backgrounds, it showcases the everyday diversity that many urban children experience. Charlene Chua's illustrations provide loads of funny details and visual narratives that aren't in the text, making for a multilayered reading experience. The book's tall, narrow trim size adds to the effect of the rising elevator.

Review Quotes

... a wonderful storytime book ...--CM Magazine

... an engaging picture-book debut ...--The Globe and Mail

... enticing ...--Publishers Weekly

[A] thoughtfully inclusive story of friendship and respect across differences.--Kirkus Reviews

A celebration of diversity and a lively portrayal of neighborly conviviality at its best, this story will put readers in a party mood, wherever they live.--School Library Journal

About the Author

Sherry J. Lee has worked in the book industry for many years, first as a bookseller and then in publishing. Sherry lives in Toronto with her husband. Going Up! is her debut picture book.