Leo, The Little Wanderer by Tuula Pere is an ode to the world's wonders. Leo lives in a pleasant village surrounded by people and places he loves. The wind entices him to set out one day and explore the world beyond his safe valley. Leo packs very little. He's content to collect memories, not things, to remember his adventures. Leo begins his journey on a train and is warmly welcomed into a family's home. He explores the town, makes some memories, and then moves on. His travels take him to places that are about to disappear, areas that have ancient histories, and places that are still being built. The wind is his constant companion and leads him to each new destination.

Tuula Pere has written a thoughtful, gentle story about venturing into the world. Leo, The Little Wanderer not only celebrates having a sense of adventure but also taking the time to learn as he goes. Leo discovers that the world is not about us and them but about the commonalities we all share. We don't have to speak the same language to enjoy music and food together. The illustrations by Andrea Alemanno are filled with soft washes of color. Leo is depicted as a dark-haired boy with a large backpack. I loved Leo's openness to discovering what each place he visits has to offer. He observes, listens, and then thinks about everything he has seen. Leo, The Little Wanderer will inspire children to slow down and experience the world around them.

Leo, the Little Wanderer by Tuula Pere is a children's book about traveling to different locations. Leo is happy at home, but the wind calls him, and he decides to visit places beyond his home. With a light backpack, Leo walks away from the valley and boards a train. Leo wanders through the town after staying overnight with a kind lady and her granddaughter. He finds shop owners close to shutting their doors permanently, so Leo employs the wind to advertise their businesses in Old Town. The wind carries him to other places on the verge of ruin or thriving with local customs and music. Leo picks up advice from an older writer before he tires of traveling. His heart belongs to his home, even though he appreciates the world's diversity.

Sometimes, even children feel drawn to visit other places, and Tuula Pere satisfies some of that curiosity in this book. As readers turn the pages, they will be mesmerized by the descriptions of the sights and sounds as well as the illustrations by Andrea Alemanno. Children will learn that other places have distinct histories, traditions, and cultures, and even though they may not speak the same language as the native people, they can still communicate through music. My children were especially interested in the older man Leo met. Similar to the older writer, my children went outside and tried to absorb the conversations around them. If you have a little wanderer or a child who loves to study other countries, Leo, the Little Wanderer would be a great reading choice.

Leo is off on a journey of discovery, a quest, really, like Sir Galahad on his quest for the Holy Grail. In Tuula Pere’s Leo, the Little Wanderer, a young boy sets out to see the world and learn what others can teach him. The wind is his guide and urges him on to new places and new experiences. He encourages people in an older part of one town to continue their trades, saying that life will get better. He enters a sacred space and feels the wonder of the many lit candles. A writer shares his wisdom: “It’s important to listen to what life has to teach you. People’s stories flow from them.” And there is so much more. But, even on his exciting travels, Leo can’t resist the urge to return home. After all, home is always where the heart is.

Tuula Pere’s picture book story, Leo, the Little Wanderer, is a pensive read. There is much to learn in the world and Leo is intent on learning all he can. The language is simple, suiting the reading level of younger audiences. The illustrations by Andrea Alemanno are subtle and full of life, adding another dimension to the story. The plot follows Leo’s wanderings and reads like a parable of adventures. Interestingly, Leo doesn’t fully understand all that he is told, but that’s usually the way it is in life and sometimes it’s okay not to understand everything. This is a lovely story, well told and full of interesting anecdotes.

Leo, the Little Wanderer is a heartwarming children’s picture book written by Tuula Pere and featuring illustrations by Andrea Alemanno. It follows the tale of Leo, a boy led by whispers in the wind and the sunlight in his path. He discovers beautiful places, meets kind strangers who welcome him into their homes, and helps people find hope. Leo travels through nature, experiences the beauty of ancient architecture, shares music, and even contributes to the construction of a grand church. Through his adventures, he learns the importance of kindness, community, and the connection between people and their surroundings. When he returns home, he is warmly welcomed by his loved ones, eager to hear about his remarkable journey.

Leo, the Little Wanderer is an adventure story that encourages children to embrace curiosity, foster friendships, and celebrate other people's cultures and history. The book contains spiritual, educational, and emotional themes that will resonate deeply with readers of all ages. Children will learn the beauty of exploration and the joy of connecting with others, inspiring them to embark on their own adventures, make memories, and experience personal growth. The story also encourages readers to appreciate different cultures and the diverse world around us. Tuula Pere presents the book's lessons in a captivating tale that children will understand and relate to. They will experience travel from a child's perspective. The illustrations bring the narrative to life. The warm colors, beautiful scenery, and enchanting places make the book a delightful visual journey. I enjoyed this book and recommend it to anyone looking for an inspiring and visually captivating story.