Meanwhile Back on Earth
Published on 29. January 2026
Book
Paperback/Softback
72 pages
978-0-00-855622-8 (ISBN)
Description
The captivating new companion to international bestsellers Here We Are and What We'll Build
A father takes his two children on a thrilling out-of-this-world adventure into space and invites them to look back at Earth and the conflicts that have taken place since the beginning of time. This becomes a brief history of the world and a whistle-stop guide to the universe, all rolled into one - and told with Oliver Jeffers's inimitable perspective, wit and exquisite artwork.
Meanwhile Back on Earth gives a unique look at life on Earth with a cosmic perspective - and an enduring message that what binds us together matters more than what sets us apart. A timely story for families everywhere.
A father takes his two children on a thrilling out-of-this-world adventure into space and invites them to look back at Earth and the conflicts that have taken place since the beginning of time. This becomes a brief history of the world and a whistle-stop guide to the universe, all rolled into one - and told with Oliver Jeffers's inimitable perspective, wit and exquisite artwork.
Meanwhile Back on Earth gives a unique look at life on Earth with a cosmic perspective - and an enduring message that what binds us together matters more than what sets us apart. A timely story for families everywhere.
Reviews / Votes
"Every new Jeffers book is a cause for celebration and his beautiful artwork and gentle humour teach a lesson in sharing that's as valuable for adults as for children" Daily Mail"In Jeffers' new picture book, inspired by his sculpture trail 'Our Place in Space', a father takes his children on a ride through time and space, and shows them the conflicts that have taken place on Earth. A mind-bending tale that is also a reminder and celebration of home." Bookseller
"Beautifully illustrated" Good Housekeeping
'Beautiful and distinctive illustrations ...A thoughtful and clever story' Booktrust
Praise for Here We Are:
'The witty images are atmospheric and full of enthralling detail' Nicolette Jones, The Times
'An optimistic snapshot of contemporary life, this heartfelt hug of a book ought to become a classic' Guardian
'Beautiful illustrations' Creative Review
'There is a childlike awe and wonder about the stars and planets in the book' The Irish Times
'Delightfully illustrated' Time
'Beautifully illustrated' Artists & Illustrators
'This performer had assured pace and charm. The storytelling was captivating and a beautifully realised gem, with a surprise ending. Gorgeous!' Audio Production Awards judges
More details
Language
English
Place of publication
London
United Kingdom
Publishing group
HarperCollins Publishers
Target group
Children/juvenile
Interest Age: From 3 years
Product notice
Unsewn / adhesive bound
Picture book
Dimensions
Height: 277 mm
Width: 237 mm
Thickness: 8 mm
Weight
440 gr
ISBN-13
978-0-00-855622-8 (9780008556228)
Copyright in bibliographic data and cover images is held by Nielsen Book Services Limited or by the publishers or by their respective licensors: all rights reserved.
Schweitzer Classification
Other editions
Additional editions
David Walliams
Aldi 2023 Walliams Fiction
Book
07/2023
HarperCollins
€177.50
No shipping information available
Person
Oliver Jeffers makes art and tells stories. From his much-loved debut, How to Catch a Star, he has gone on to create a collection of award-winning and bestselling picture books, which have been translated all over the globe, including the New York Times number 1 bestseller and TIME Magazine Best Book of the Year, Here We Are. Oliver is from Belfast and now lives and works in Brooklyn.