Afterward, Everything Was Different

This beautiful near-wordless picture book takes readers on a captivating journey back in time to the Pleistocene era, where early humans coexist with gigantic beasts. Meticulously illustrated with graphite and white ink, it offers a unique and thought-provoking exploration of prehistoric life and the birth of storytelling.

The story begins with a thrilling bison hunt, setting the scene in a wild and mountainous landscape filled with volcanoes and prehistoric creatures. The narrative follows a small band of early humans, including a single humanoid ancestor intriguingly difficult to place, and the tribe’s hound. One observant young girl stands out as she keenly notices the dangers that surround them. As the tribe migrates, they encounter various perils, and lose members to animal attacks and natural disasters, yet persevere to find a warm cave to call home. Here, the girl showcases her artistic talents, creating cave drawings that depict their adventures and become the foundation of storytelling for her tribe. Through her art, she preserves their history and shares their experiences with her family, forever changing the course of human culture: it is a beautiful, touching moment.

This compelling tale delves into themes of survival, human ingenuity, and the power of storytelling. The narrative highlights the importance of observation and creativity, as the young girl’s keen eye for detail and artistic expression play pivotal roles in the tribe’s survival and cultural development. The book also subtly alludes to the significance of women in prehistoric societies, mirroring modern research that suggests women likely played a prominent role in creating ancient cave art.

The black and white illustrations by Rafael Yockteng are breathtakingly atmospheric and intricately detailed, drawing readers into the prehistoric world with every page. The artist skillfully portrays the vastness of the landscape and the sheer scale of the creatures roaming it, creating a sense of wonder and danger that captivates young and old alike. The visual storytelling allows readers to notice new details with each re-reading, enhancing the overall experience, and I often found myself gasping as I turned pages.

This is a masterful and original picture book that breaks away from convention. Its wordless format allows young readers to interpret the narrative through evocative illustrations, sparking their imaginations and encouraging close observation. Whether enjoyed individually or shared with a small group, this book is bound to provoke stimulating conversations about human history, creativity, and the impact of stories on shaping cultures. A must-have addition to any library or bookshelf.