While We Wait - by Bee Johnson (Hardcover)

About the Book

"A charming picture book about a brother and sister who discover the unexpected delights of life's in-between moments while running errands with their mother"--

Book Synopsis

From the best-selling author of What Can a Mess Make? comes a charming picture book about a brother and sister who discover the unexpected delights of life's in-between moments while running errands with their mother.

With joyful rhymes and gorgeous illustrations, this book invites readers to discover beauty in patience and cherish the opportunity of boredom.

Thunder rumbles.
Clouds hang low.
No umbrella!
Where to go?

Speckled sidewalk.
Stormy weather.
While we wait,
we squeeze together.

Filled with the highs and lows of a long day out, this story gently reminds us of the joy in simple moments spent together.

Review Quotes

An Amazon Best Book of the Month
A Bookshop Best Book of 2025

"...joyful togetherness provides the perfect antidote to waiting"--Shelf Awareness

"A cozy tale of youngsters discovering ways to have fun while also learning the importance of patience."--Kirkus

"A gentle reminder that even errands can be full of small joys, this is a great choice for storytime"--Booklist

About the Author

Bee Johnson was born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee. She studied illustration at the Savannah College of Art and Design and has worked as a commercial and editorial illustrator since 2010. Her client list includes the New York Times, Warby Parker and the Guardian. She lives in the Northeast with her husband, their two daughters and a beagle named Banjo.