FARAWAY FAMILY, by Padma Venkatraman and Nicole Wong, Nancy Paulsen Books, Aug. 25, 2026, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 3-7)
A young girl discovers a unique way to make friends with a grandmother she doesn’t remember in Faraway Family, by Padma Venkatraman and Nicole Wong.
It’s a joyous occasion when you get to visit family in another country after a long time apart. But sometimes it takes a while to connect. That’s what happens to the little girl in this book—when she first sees her faraway family, they feel like strangers. To make matters worse, the power goes out at bedtime, and that means no more night-light. Then a flashlight beam appears—it’s her grandmother, who invites her into a lively game of shadow play. And soon the two of them are having a grand adventure, and the girl’s faraway family starts feeling more like friends. —Synopsis provided by Nancy Paulsen Books
Though set in another country, Faraway Family is a book kids across the globe can relate to. Many extended families live far apart, and getting together can be overwhelming, especially for young children.
Author Padma Venkatraman’s understanding and gentle voice immediately sets the tone. She recognizes and confirms feelings in an accessible way. Nicole Wong’s warm illustrations are instantly inviting. And her transition from finger puppets to imagined elephants, swans and dogs is beautifully realized.
Faraway Family is a joyful look at connection through shared imagination.
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