Book Review: Late today by Jungyoon Huh & Illustrated by Myungae Lee

⭐Netgalley Read ⭐

Rating: ★★★★ 4 star

In Late Today, author Jungyoon Huh and illustrator Myungae Lee come together to create a tender, emotionally resonant story about compassion in the chaos of everyday life. Set against the backdrop of a rainy, hectic morning rush hour, this picture book follows a stray kitten who finds itself terrified and lost amidst honking horns, slippery streets, and the blur of commuters in a hurry.

The story unfolds with urgency as the helpless kitten darts from car to car, desperate for safety while everyone around it is too focused on getting to work. But the heart of the story emerges when one driver notices the frightened creature and decides to stop, offering shelter and ultimately, rescue. Though the act delays traffic even more and makes everyone—including the rescuer—late, it leads to something far more important: the saving of a life and the beginning of a new one for the kitten.

Huh's writing is both simple and poetic, with a poignant layer added by her dedication—to a kitten she once couldn’t save. It’s a quiet reminder of the moments we often miss in our fast-paced lives, and a call to pause, to care, and to choose kindness even when the world is rushing forward.

Lee’s illustrations bring the rainy streets and emotional tension to life with a vivid, crayon-like, sketchy style that’s warm and expressive. The artwork feels alive, almost childlike in its texture, making it accessible and engaging for young readers. The expressive lines capture the chaos of traffic and the fragility of the kitten with equal skill, pulling readers right into the scene.

Late Today is a beautifully crafted tale for children, one that doesn’t just tell a story, but teaches an important lesson: sometimes, being “late” is worth it. It’s a quiet but powerful tribute to empathy, a reminder to look beyond our own busy schedules, and a celebration of doing the right thing—especially when it’s inconvenient.

Perfect for ages 4–8, animal lovers, and anyone in need of a gentle reminder to slow down and care.