Review by Jolie Cotton THe Honolulu Advertiser
Local Publisher Buddy Bess said he first saw the idea for this picture book from J. Lovins in 2007 at a Pitch the Publisher event during the Hawaii Book & Music Festival. Opihi Baby was the only project that day Bess chose to acquire.
Her artwork really stood out Bess said and he was intrigued by the concept.
Lovins concept is to explore the natural Hawaiian connection between child family and the land. The result which Lovins both wrote and illustrated is a unique first picture book. Vivid acrylic paintings on double-page spreads depict an infant and adults emerging from the natural landscape. Evocative imagery is paired with a rhyming text both of which should stimulate creativity and appeal to young children. Families expecting a new baby will particularly enjoy this offering.