It happens in all kinds of places – on a bus, in a restaurant, at the doctor’s office, even in a bookstore. A kindness is extended, a smile is offered—something that feels like it could develop into friendship, maybe even love. But the moment is fleeting. In popular parlance, they’re known as “missed connections.” If you’re truly motivated, you’ll place an ad in the local newspaper or on Craigslist. Stranger seeking stranger.

Artist Sophie Blackall, known for her children’s book illustrations (namely the popular Ivy & Bean series) has captured the spirit of these delightful stories (classified ads) creating ink and watercolor drawings in a book simply titled, Missed Connections.

Clever, quirky, often humorous, Blackall’s illustrations bring to life messages that are full of hope, optimism, and possibility. I have fallen in love with this book; each page is a miniature piece of art with messages that are disarmingly candid and downright sweet.

Here’s a favorite: “You were the gorgeous brunette sleeping on the train. I was the guy sitting next to you. I just wanted to apologize for the repeated lack of consciousness onto your shoulder, we both got off at Flatbush. Hit me back up if you think this was you.”
I’ll say it again: I love this book. It’s a perfect treasure for a friend, a hostess gift, a Secret Santa gift, or stocking stuffer. ~Wendee