Enough is a beautiful little picture book based in Raglan (Whaingaroa) following the main character, Hana, and her journeys around the neighbourhood. Using simple and repetitive language the story charts before, during and after the COVID-19 lockdowns and how a community comes together to support each other in the face of adversity.
The plucky little protagonist notices that there is not ‘enough’ although exactly what ‘enough’ is doesn’t get fully explored. It took a bit of explaining to my 5 year old as to what ‘nearly enough, sort of enough, almost enough’ meant and the difference between each.
There are repeated characters throughout like the old lady who ends up needing the support of an ambulance and the family who support Hana as she champions the neighbourhood support mechanisms to collaboratively provide for the whole community. Kind of a Robin Hood tale but where all participants are willing, rather than the ‘steal from the rich’ mentality of the legendary tight-wearing archer.
Enough celebrates how a little from one person - time, energy, a portion of food - can mean so much to another in times of shared hardships. It also supports the notion that you don’t need to have a lot to give, to make a massive difference. The thought is more important than the action in most cases.
It was wonderful to see that every sale provides for the organisation Feed the Kids.
Together, we can make a difference for everyone, but even if we can’t mobilise a whole community, the message is that individually we can still make a difference.
Reviewer: Chris Reed
Picture Book Publishing, RRP $19.99