About the Author

Davina Bell is an award-winning author of books for young readers of many ages. She writes picture books (including Under the Love Umbrella and All the Ways To Be Smart), as well as junior fiction, middle-grade fiction, and YA. Davina lives in Melbourne, where she works as a children’s book publisher. She talks to kids and adults around the country about the enchanting world of books and ideas.


Allison Colpoys is an award-winning designer and illustrator based in Naarm/Melbourne, Australia. Allison is represented by the Jacky Winter Group for illustration.

Reviews

‘Captivating neon illustrations add even more charm to this already delightful story. Under the Love Umbrella reminds children that comfort and love is ever-present, even when you are not near your family.’
*Evening Standard*

‘Beautifully tender and life-affirming.’
*Nathan Filer, author of The Shock of the Fall*

‘A gorgeous book about the transformative power of family love in all its forms. Written in rhyming couplets, it reassures children that they are protected by an ‘umbrella’ of love wherever they go in the world and whatever they encounter … a truly beautiful book.’
*The Sun*

‘Achingly relevant … Lovely, really.’
*The Guardian*

‘The enduring love between parent and child is celebrated in distinctive, vintage-inspired style.’
*The Bookseller*

‘Bright, expressive and featuring joyfully diverse illustration throughout, Under the Love Umbrella provides poetic reassurance that whatever happens, children will be protected and loved. Perfect for sharing at bedtime with cuddles.’
*BookTrust*

‘A truly charming book little ones will adore.’
*Little London*

‘This brightly illustrated picture book is a celebration of the enduring love that surrounds your children, wherever they are in the world. The families we meet represent the wonderful diversity that make our world what it is and show that there is nothing to fear from differences. It is also a reminder to children that love is around them, especially in times of worry or fear. This book is suitable for new parents and babies, as well as for children embarking on big changes and adventures, who may benefit from this lovely reminder of the permanence of love. A beautiful message to share with young children.’
*Lovereading4kids*

‘The illustrations are very bright and I like that they embrace a diverse range of families and relationships … I think we should all remember that we have a “love umbrella”.’
*Juno*

‘A meditation on parental love in all its forms, brought to life by a joyful neon palette.’
*The Bookseller*

‘I love it! I didn’t like anything the best — it’s all good. I like the illustrations. They are cool. I like the page with the umbrella made out of stars.’
*Anorak*

‘Scary shadows, friends that don't share, shyness, moving, and such everyday childhood issues as wet pants, a lost tooth, and a parent's rushing them. No worry can last under a love umbrella … Colpoys’ striking illustrations, which combine an earth palette with day-glo highlights, effectively show love umbrellas both imagined and real.’
*Kirkus Reviews*

‘This is a book that has it all — a beautiful message with amazing illustrations ... The basic point of the story is that no matter what, whoever loves you will provide comfort and shelter to help you cope with distressing situations ... The illustrations provided by Allison Colpoys are nothing short of amazing. The background on the pages are mostly black or white and the colours used are vibrant red, orange, gold, and purple — almost to the point of being neon colours. The illustrations are detailed and children will love seeing all the little things hidden in the pages ... It is also a great tool to talk about feelings.’
*Kristin Guay, Youth Services Book Review*

‘This sweetly comforting story is recommended for general purchase and well suited to storytime.’
*Deerfield Public Library*

‘A beautiful story of a parent’s love … A truly wonderful book for youngsters facing change and challenges, no matter how big or small.’
*Mum’s Grapevine*

‘When life gets hard or scary, there is always room under the love umbrella to feel safe and adored ... [A] sweetly comforting story.’
*School Library Journal*

‘With a comforting lilt, Bell narrates a message of unshakable connectedness and belonging… [A]n ageless reminder, tenderly composed.’
*Publishers Weekly*

‘A sweet and beautifully illustrated book about love and family.’
*Baby Librarians*

‘Contemporary yet classic-feeling illustrations, a simple and resonant message. Charming!’
*Bookseller Review, Content Book Store*

‘An incredibly uplifting, rhyming story for readers of all ages, to share, enjoy, and return to. We love this book, and the incredible warm, vibrant, celebratory illustrations will fill the hearts of all who open the page. Treat yourself to a little joy.’
*Shropshire Living*