One of Quill & Quire 's Books of the Year A 2021 Sheila Barry Best Canadian Picturebook of the Year Nominee "It's an altogether mystical yet accessibly grounded story." -- STARRED REVIEW, Kirkus Reviews "The poetic text, inspired by Emily's actual writing in The Book of Small , has an enchanting, spirited quality about it." --Booklist "The text is poetic yet frenetic, pulsing near the point of bursting with natural sights and sounds. [T]he essence of Carr is here, and true." --Quill & Quire "Soloy's poetic prose and sumptuous illustrations pay homage to this beloved artist and writer." --Atlantic Books Today "Soloy's When Emily Was Small is a satisfying, challenging, beautiful picture book that deserves to be shared with young readers and the young at heart." --CM Reviews.