Rosy Lamb’s Paul Meets Bernadette is a tender and visually stunning picture book that celebrates the magic of friendship and the power of imagination. Through its gentle storytelling and lush, impressionistic illustrations, the book tells the story of Paul, a quiet and introspective fish, whose world changes for the better when Bernadette, a vibrant and curious new companion, enters his life. With its charming characters and whimsical exploration of how different perspectives can broaden one’s view of the world, Paul Meets Bernadette is a sweet and thoughtful read for young children.
At the start of the book, Paul is a fish who leads a simple, repetitive life, swimming in circles around his bowl without much purpose or excitement. His world is small and limited to the glass walls of his home. However, everything changes when Bernadette, another fish, joins him in the bowl. Bernadette has a boundless imagination and immediately begins to show Paul how to see the world in a completely different way. She points out various objects outside their bowl—a banana, a tea kettle, a clock—but through her creative lens, these objects transform into extraordinary and whimsical things, like boats, elephants, and umbrellas.
The heart of the story lies in how Bernadette’s presence opens Paul’s eyes to a world of possibilities beyond his routine. Through her imaginative descriptions, Paul starts to see the ordinary in new, exciting ways. What was once a mundane existence is now filled with color, wonder, and connection. Bernadette’s ability to reimagine the world encourages Paul to think outside the bowl, and their blossoming friendship becomes a beautiful metaphor for how relationships can enrich our lives and change our perspective on the world.
Lamb’s writing is poetic and minimalist, allowing the illustrations to do much of the storytelling. The simplicity of the text mirrors Paul’s initial limited view of life, while the rich, painterly artwork fills in the emotional depth and creative energy that Bernadette brings into his world. The watercolor-like illustrations are dreamy and expressive, with soft hues and sweeping brushstrokes that evoke a sense of calm and wonder. Each page is carefully composed, drawing readers into Paul’s tiny world and then expanding it as Bernadette’s imagination takes flight. The contrast between the muted tones of Paul’s solitary life and the vibrant scenes that follow Bernadette’s arrival is a visual representation of how friendship can brighten our lives.
One of the most charming aspects of Paul Meets Bernadette is the way it gently encourages readers to look beyond the obvious and embrace a sense of wonder. Bernadette’s whimsical interpretations of everyday objects invite children to tap into their own imaginations and see the world in new, creative ways. This theme of perspective is a subtle yet powerful one, offering a reminder that how we see the world can be shaped by those around us. It’s a message that resonates with readers of all ages, but is particularly meaningful for young children who are just beginning to explore the boundaries of their own imagination.
The relationship between Paul and Bernadette is also beautifully depicted. Bernadette isn’t just a whimsical figure who brings excitement to Paul’s life—she is a caring and encouraging friend who gently nudges Paul out of his comfort zone without ever forcing him. Their friendship grows naturally, with Paul learning to see the world through Bernadette’s eyes while remaining true to himself. It’s a lovely representation of how friendships can bring out the best in us, helping us to see things differently and embrace new experiences.
Although Paul Meets Bernadette is a quiet and introspective story, it carries a powerful message about the importance of connection, creativity, and seeing the world through a different lens. It’s a perfect read for children who may feel stuck in routine or who need encouragement to use their imaginations. The book’s gentle tone and expressive artwork also make it a soothing bedtime story, inviting children to reflect on their own friendships and the wonders that exist all around them if they take the time to look.
One potential critique of the book is that its pacing is quite slow, and the plot is simple, with little action. However, this slower, contemplative pace is part of its charm, allowing readers to soak in the beauty of the illustrations and the quiet depth of Paul and Bernadette’s relationship. For children who enjoy more high-energy, action-packed stories, Paul Meets Bernadette may feel more subdued, but for those who appreciate gentle, thought-provoking tales, this book offers a peaceful and reflective reading experience.
Paul Meets Bernadette is a touching and beautifully illustrated picture book that celebrates friendship, imagination, and seeing the world through new eyes. Rosy Lamb’s delicate storytelling and dreamy illustrations create a soothing, whimsical world where ordinary things become extraordinary, and where even the smallest connections can change everything. This is a book that invites readers to slow down, take a closer look, and discover the beauty in life’s simple moments. It’s a delightful and thoughtful read for children and a lovely reminder for all of us to open our minds to the magic of imagination.
Questions to ask while reading:
- How does Bernadette help Paul see the world differently?
- What are some ways you can use your imagination to see ordinary things in new ways?
- How does Paul and Bernadette’s friendship change both of them?
Paul Meets Bernadette on Amazon