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Stella's Brave Voice
Marissa Bader
2024 Silver Medal
39 Pages
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Children - Picture Book
Reviewed by Doreen Chombu for Readers' Favorite
Stella's Brave Voice is a children's picture book written by Marissa Bader with illustrations by Arlene Soto. The book follows the story of twin sisters, Stella and Paige. Stella loves that she has a twin sister who always has her back because she talks less than Paige, who is more outgoing. Unfortunately, sometimes Paige oversteps and forgets that Stella can speak for herself if she wants to. Stella confides in their mother and informs her that she feels a burning feeling in her stomach whenever Paige talks for her. What could it be? And will her mother’s advice help her find the courage to speak up for herself? Get a copy of this book to find out.
Stella's Brave Voice is a fun story that encourages children to speak up and share their opinions. Stella is an adorable character whose plight will resonate with many shy children who are afraid to voice their ideas. Marissa Bader uses this story to teach children to get out of their shells and stand up for themselves. Bottling up your feelings and not sharing your views can cause you to feel stressed, and like Stella, it can give you a burning sensation in your stomach. Freedom and joy come with speaking out, and this can be seen in Stella’s character development from a timid child to a cheerful and brave girl. I loved the book’s art because it was eye-catching and told the story through visuals. I recommend parents and caregivers to read this book with their children and help them find fun ideas to help them overcome their fear of speaking up.
Stella's Brave Voice is a children's picture book written by Marissa Bader with illustrations by Arlene Soto. The book follows the story of twin sisters, Stella and Paige. Stella loves that she has a twin sister who always has her back because she talks less than Paige, who is more outgoing. Unfortunately, sometimes Paige oversteps and forgets that Stella can speak for herself if she wants to. Stella confides in their mother and informs her that she feels a burning feeling in her stomach whenever Paige talks for her. What could it be? And will her mother’s advice help her find the courage to speak up for herself? Get a copy of this book to find out.
Stella's Brave Voice is a fun story that encourages children to speak up and share their opinions. Stella is an adorable character whose plight will resonate with many shy children who are afraid to voice their ideas. Marissa Bader uses this story to teach children to get out of their shells and stand up for themselves. Bottling up your feelings and not sharing your views can cause you to feel stressed, and like Stella, it can give you a burning sensation in your stomach. Freedom and joy come with speaking out, and this can be seen in Stella’s character development from a timid child to a cheerful and brave girl. I loved the book’s art because it was eye-catching and told the story through visuals. I recommend parents and caregivers to read this book with their children and help them find fun ideas to help them overcome their fear of speaking up.
Recommend this book:
I Can't Believe They're Gone
A kid's grief book that hugs, helps, and gives hope
Karen Brough, Hiruni Kariyawasam
2024 Gold Medal
39 Pages
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Children - Picture Book
Reviewed by Zahid Sheikh for Readers' Favorite
I Can't Believe They're Gone by Karen Brough is a heartwarming and empathetic guide designed to provide support and understanding to children navigating the complex emotions of grief. The narrative captures the responses of different characters, each struggling with their emotions after losing someone dear to them. The story is beautifully structured, with each character seeking solace and wisdom from Wise Old Bear, who provides them with compassionate guidance and the reassurance that emotions are neither good nor bad but simply part of being human. The mice represent a range of emotional reactions, from disbelief and sadness to anger, guilt, and numbness. The turning point of the story, where Tiny Mouse sheds tears and finds comfort through creating something meaningful, is particularly touching.
The narrative showcases the different emotional responses and the characters' coping mechanisms to navigate their grief. From productive activities to creative outlets, the characters find ways to channel their emotions positively. Karen Brough showcases the importance of finding healthy ways to express and process feelings. These emotions are handled delicately and realistically, allowing readers to connect with the characters and their feelings. Hiruni Kariyawasam's illustrations are vital in enhancing the book's impact. The colorful and expressive artwork complements the text beautifully, capturing the essence of the emotional rollercoaster that children experience when dealing with loss. Through its relatable characters and gentle storytelling, I Can't Believe They're Gone offers young readers a touching portrayal of the human experience of loss and the myriad emotions that come with it.
I Can't Believe They're Gone by Karen Brough is a heartwarming and empathetic guide designed to provide support and understanding to children navigating the complex emotions of grief. The narrative captures the responses of different characters, each struggling with their emotions after losing someone dear to them. The story is beautifully structured, with each character seeking solace and wisdom from Wise Old Bear, who provides them with compassionate guidance and the reassurance that emotions are neither good nor bad but simply part of being human. The mice represent a range of emotional reactions, from disbelief and sadness to anger, guilt, and numbness. The turning point of the story, where Tiny Mouse sheds tears and finds comfort through creating something meaningful, is particularly touching.
The narrative showcases the different emotional responses and the characters' coping mechanisms to navigate their grief. From productive activities to creative outlets, the characters find ways to channel their emotions positively. Karen Brough showcases the importance of finding healthy ways to express and process feelings. These emotions are handled delicately and realistically, allowing readers to connect with the characters and their feelings. Hiruni Kariyawasam's illustrations are vital in enhancing the book's impact. The colorful and expressive artwork complements the text beautifully, capturing the essence of the emotional rollercoaster that children experience when dealing with loss. Through its relatable characters and gentle storytelling, I Can't Believe They're Gone offers young readers a touching portrayal of the human experience of loss and the myriad emotions that come with it.
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Doppy Saves the Bees!
An Educational, Rhyming Picture Book About Bee Conservation for Kids
H. R. Manske
2023 Finalist
29 Pages
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Children - Picture Book
Reviewed by Savannah Aldridge for Readers' Favorite
Doppy Saves the Bees: An Educational, Rhyming Picture Book About Bee Conservation for Kids by H.R. Manske addresses the critical issue of nature conservation in a style that is educational and downright precious. Doppy, an adorable “Dop,” meets Honey the Bee when she swoops into his garden. Honey explains that bees like herself are disappearing, and while this could be a big problem, there is a solution. Doppy flies away with his new bee friend to learn some easy, safe ways to help create a world that provides what bees need to keep pollinating. Told in rhyme, filled with delightful illustrations, and wrapped up with scientific facts about bees, this is a fantastic picture book for a budding generation of bee protectors.
I loved the creativity in Doppy Saves the Bees. Art-wise, Doppy is a friendly and cute character with a fun shape and style that I have not seen before. H.R. Manske does a wonderful job of acknowledging that bees can be intimidating while also helping the reader embrace them as friends and important members of our ecosystem. The science highlighted by the book - what bees do for plants and how we can provide for them - is comprehensible for young readers, but is also engaging and informative for grown-ups who hope to guide their little ones in practicing bee care. This book is ideal for beginning readers (5 to 7 years old) looking for a book to enjoy on their own, but adults will also not be able to resist falling in love with Doppy and Honey.
Doppy Saves the Bees: An Educational, Rhyming Picture Book About Bee Conservation for Kids by H.R. Manske addresses the critical issue of nature conservation in a style that is educational and downright precious. Doppy, an adorable “Dop,” meets Honey the Bee when she swoops into his garden. Honey explains that bees like herself are disappearing, and while this could be a big problem, there is a solution. Doppy flies away with his new bee friend to learn some easy, safe ways to help create a world that provides what bees need to keep pollinating. Told in rhyme, filled with delightful illustrations, and wrapped up with scientific facts about bees, this is a fantastic picture book for a budding generation of bee protectors.
I loved the creativity in Doppy Saves the Bees. Art-wise, Doppy is a friendly and cute character with a fun shape and style that I have not seen before. H.R. Manske does a wonderful job of acknowledging that bees can be intimidating while also helping the reader embrace them as friends and important members of our ecosystem. The science highlighted by the book - what bees do for plants and how we can provide for them - is comprehensible for young readers, but is also engaging and informative for grown-ups who hope to guide their little ones in practicing bee care. This book is ideal for beginning readers (5 to 7 years old) looking for a book to enjoy on their own, but adults will also not be able to resist falling in love with Doppy and Honey.
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Zee Zee Does It Anyway
A Story About Down Syndrome and Determination
Dr. Vona B. Shodja
2023 Honorable Mention
40 Pages
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Children - Picture Book
Reviewed by Alex Ndirangu for Readers' Favorite
Most of us have 46 chromosomes from our mother and father. Chromosomes are structures that carry information about who we are. But have you ever met anyone with 47 chromosomes? If you haven't met a person with this trait, known as Down Syndrome before, you will now. Meet Zee Zee. She is one of every 700 children in the United States who received the bonus chromosome. Down Syndrome poses challenges, but that doesn't mean Zee Zee can't have an exciting life. She also has incredible abilities. Due to her low muscle tone, Zee Zee is super flexible and can do astonishing body tricks that leave you in awe. Grab a copy of Zee Zee Does It Anyway by Vona B. Shodja to learn more about Down Syndrome and how it steps up Zee Zee's game.
The word choices in Zee Zee Does It Anyway are simple which will make it easy for children to understand its main theme and learn the moral lessons they need while growing up. We are all different in unique ways. As we grow older, we meet people of various heights, skin tones, and hair colors. We even deal with various medical conditions that call for different treatments. We cannot control this. But we can control how kind, genuine, and positive we are, even when situations do not turn out as we had hoped. Zee Zee leads by example, and you can feel her voice encouraging you to greet those friends you have ignored for a long time and even laugh at a joke you once took seriously.
Zee Zee's story is made realistic through the colorful, vibrant images that capture the relevant events in her life and the various emotions she feels in those moments. Zee Zee is funny, imaginative, and joyful when playing. You will love the make-believe adventures and games she has with her two brothers. I loved how Zee Zee always won at hide-and-seek and zoomed around like a superhero. I hope Vona B. Shodja writes a sequel to this fascinating, educational read ideal for both adults and children.
Most of us have 46 chromosomes from our mother and father. Chromosomes are structures that carry information about who we are. But have you ever met anyone with 47 chromosomes? If you haven't met a person with this trait, known as Down Syndrome before, you will now. Meet Zee Zee. She is one of every 700 children in the United States who received the bonus chromosome. Down Syndrome poses challenges, but that doesn't mean Zee Zee can't have an exciting life. She also has incredible abilities. Due to her low muscle tone, Zee Zee is super flexible and can do astonishing body tricks that leave you in awe. Grab a copy of Zee Zee Does It Anyway by Vona B. Shodja to learn more about Down Syndrome and how it steps up Zee Zee's game.
The word choices in Zee Zee Does It Anyway are simple which will make it easy for children to understand its main theme and learn the moral lessons they need while growing up. We are all different in unique ways. As we grow older, we meet people of various heights, skin tones, and hair colors. We even deal with various medical conditions that call for different treatments. We cannot control this. But we can control how kind, genuine, and positive we are, even when situations do not turn out as we had hoped. Zee Zee leads by example, and you can feel her voice encouraging you to greet those friends you have ignored for a long time and even laugh at a joke you once took seriously.
Zee Zee's story is made realistic through the colorful, vibrant images that capture the relevant events in her life and the various emotions she feels in those moments. Zee Zee is funny, imaginative, and joyful when playing. You will love the make-believe adventures and games she has with her two brothers. I loved how Zee Zee always won at hide-and-seek and zoomed around like a superhero. I hope Vona B. Shodja writes a sequel to this fascinating, educational read ideal for both adults and children.
Recommend this book:
Crow From the Shadow
Overcoming Self Doubt with Positive Thinking (Parent-Child-Connect (P2c))
Olaolu Ogunyemi
2023 Bronze Medal
34 Pages
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Children - Picture Book
Reviewed by Emma Megan for Readers' Favorite
Crow From the Shadow by Olaolu Ogunyemi is a must-read picture book for every child. It contains valuable and inspiring life lessons and will empower children to believe in themselves, identify, and overcome their negative thoughts. It tells the story of Crow, a bright bird whose life is controlled by The Shadow. Crow doesn't like that The Shadow tells him who to be and what to do, but he can't do anything about it. Every time Crow wants to do something, The Shadow stops him. Unfortunately, Crow doesn't dare to stand up to him, so he keeps dreaming of the life he could have. Will Crow stop listening to The Shadow and regain control over his fate?
I adored this well-illustrated story with an important and influential message. I firmly believe that many children will resonate with Crow's struggles. What children tell themselves impacts their self-confidence. Their inner voice matters as it's one of the most significant influences that shape their journeys. Crow From the Shadow by Olaolu Ogunyemi introduces children to their negative thinking and inner critic. It encourages them to overcome self-doubt, become all they can be, and determine their future. It's a perfect addition to every home and school. It can help parents, teachers, and mentors to start conversations with children, at home and in the classroom, about self-doubt and how to deal with it. This easy-to-read story will make a huge difference in the hearts and minds of children who are afraid to follow their dreams.
Crow From the Shadow by Olaolu Ogunyemi is a must-read picture book for every child. It contains valuable and inspiring life lessons and will empower children to believe in themselves, identify, and overcome their negative thoughts. It tells the story of Crow, a bright bird whose life is controlled by The Shadow. Crow doesn't like that The Shadow tells him who to be and what to do, but he can't do anything about it. Every time Crow wants to do something, The Shadow stops him. Unfortunately, Crow doesn't dare to stand up to him, so he keeps dreaming of the life he could have. Will Crow stop listening to The Shadow and regain control over his fate?
I adored this well-illustrated story with an important and influential message. I firmly believe that many children will resonate with Crow's struggles. What children tell themselves impacts their self-confidence. Their inner voice matters as it's one of the most significant influences that shape their journeys. Crow From the Shadow by Olaolu Ogunyemi introduces children to their negative thinking and inner critic. It encourages them to overcome self-doubt, become all they can be, and determine their future. It's a perfect addition to every home and school. It can help parents, teachers, and mentors to start conversations with children, at home and in the classroom, about self-doubt and how to deal with it. This easy-to-read story will make a huge difference in the hearts and minds of children who are afraid to follow their dreams.
Recommend this book:
'Twas the Night Before Christmas...A First for Gus
Sherry Roberts
2023 Silver Medal
36 Pages
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Children - Picture Book
Reviewed by Melinda Facal for Readers' Favorite
‘Twas the Night Before Christmas…A First for Gus is a heartwarming children’s book by Sherry Roberts with illustrations by Dylan Hale. In this delightful tale, we meet Gus, a shelter dog, who is awakened on Christmas Eve by the sound of Santa’s sleigh. Santa invites Gus to travel with him all night delivering presents to children all over the world. Gus feels at home at one particular house and wishes he could stay. Santa may have a surprise in store for Gus. Whimsical and colorful illustrations throughout add to the cheer of this cozy holiday story. A special link is included at the end of the book for readers to find out the conclusion to this touching story. Important information is also included to remind readers about the commitment and responsibility involved in caring for a pet.
The magic and thrill of the Christmas season are captured in Sherry Robert’s ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas…A First for Gus. Young readers will be captivated by the warm and bright illustrations, the fun and upbeat rhymes, and the excitement of traveling with Santa as he delivers gifts. Everyone will be rooting for endearing little Gus to find a loving and permanent home. The useful reminders about pet adoption may spark discussions about the love and attention pets need. The link at the end of the story feels like a treat and children will be delighted to discover more about Gus. This engaging and uplifting story is sure to become a family favorite throughout the holidays.
‘Twas the Night Before Christmas…A First for Gus is a heartwarming children’s book by Sherry Roberts with illustrations by Dylan Hale. In this delightful tale, we meet Gus, a shelter dog, who is awakened on Christmas Eve by the sound of Santa’s sleigh. Santa invites Gus to travel with him all night delivering presents to children all over the world. Gus feels at home at one particular house and wishes he could stay. Santa may have a surprise in store for Gus. Whimsical and colorful illustrations throughout add to the cheer of this cozy holiday story. A special link is included at the end of the book for readers to find out the conclusion to this touching story. Important information is also included to remind readers about the commitment and responsibility involved in caring for a pet.
The magic and thrill of the Christmas season are captured in Sherry Robert’s ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas…A First for Gus. Young readers will be captivated by the warm and bright illustrations, the fun and upbeat rhymes, and the excitement of traveling with Santa as he delivers gifts. Everyone will be rooting for endearing little Gus to find a loving and permanent home. The useful reminders about pet adoption may spark discussions about the love and attention pets need. The link at the end of the story feels like a treat and children will be delighted to discover more about Gus. This engaging and uplifting story is sure to become a family favorite throughout the holidays.
Recommend this book:
Books For Benjamin
A Fun Picture Book Adventure Valuing Diversity and Being Different
R.G. de Rouen
2023 Silver Medal
32 Pages
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Children - Picture Book
Reviewed by Melanie Kennedy for Readers' Favorite
Books for Benjamin by R.G. de Rouen is a delightful children’s book about Benjamin, a unique little worm, and his quest to find knowledge. Benjamin isn’t like other worms that love to eat fruit and mulch – he wants to read! He bravely sets out to find more books to satisfy his real appetite for words. On his journey, he encounters some scary predicaments and is ultimately saved by an amazing librarian. She introduces him to libraries and their essential place in society. Before they know it, Benjamin has read all the books, some even twice, and the librarian and Benjamin go on an exciting trip to the largest library in the world. Benjamin and his escapades are illustrated by Uliana Barabash and she brings the littlest worm and his great dream to life with soft and pleasant pastels.
Books for Benjamin is a heartwarming tale of following your dreams despite the obstacles in the way. As an avid reader, and a constant consumer of library books in my youth, I’ve felt like I’ve been little Benjamin myself. R.G. de Rouen does a wonderful job of making Benjamin’s story exciting and educational at the same time. The author provides the reader with some interesting facts about libraries at the end of the book and even includes a little game for children to play each time they see a new book – ensuring they never forget Benjamin and his quest. Uliana Barabash’s illustrations are pleasing to the eye and any child will love the evocative pictures and colorful scenes. I know I did.
Books for Benjamin by R.G. de Rouen is a delightful children’s book about Benjamin, a unique little worm, and his quest to find knowledge. Benjamin isn’t like other worms that love to eat fruit and mulch – he wants to read! He bravely sets out to find more books to satisfy his real appetite for words. On his journey, he encounters some scary predicaments and is ultimately saved by an amazing librarian. She introduces him to libraries and their essential place in society. Before they know it, Benjamin has read all the books, some even twice, and the librarian and Benjamin go on an exciting trip to the largest library in the world. Benjamin and his escapades are illustrated by Uliana Barabash and she brings the littlest worm and his great dream to life with soft and pleasant pastels.
Books for Benjamin is a heartwarming tale of following your dreams despite the obstacles in the way. As an avid reader, and a constant consumer of library books in my youth, I’ve felt like I’ve been little Benjamin myself. R.G. de Rouen does a wonderful job of making Benjamin’s story exciting and educational at the same time. The author provides the reader with some interesting facts about libraries at the end of the book and even includes a little game for children to play each time they see a new book – ensuring they never forget Benjamin and his quest. Uliana Barabash’s illustrations are pleasing to the eye and any child will love the evocative pictures and colorful scenes. I know I did.
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Masterpiece
Alexandra Hoffman
2023 Gold Medal
32 Pages
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Children - Picture Book
Reviewed by Vincent Dublado for Readers' Favorite
Masterpiece by Alexandra Hoffman is an apt title not only for the story it tells but as a word that best describes this book as a whole. Readers meet a young boy named Samuel who loves the color blue. He sees the world in different shades of blue as evidenced by his artworks and personal stuff. One day at school, his teacher tells the class to draw a picture of themselves and their families and to be sure to add lots of colors. Of course, for Samuel, everything looks awesome in blue. Each student draws a picture showing their quality time with their family and shares it in class. When it is Samuel’s turn to share his artwork, his teacher describes it as a masterpiece. But will his classmates agree?
Masterpiece is one of those rare and inspiring books that tackle the theme of inclusion, and it is effective in handling the subject with sensitivity, compassion, and encouragement. Alexandra Hoffman gives the perfect treatment to her character, and Beatriz Mello’s solid and colorful illustrations amplify it. Hoffman doesn’t even mention that Samuel is a child with special needs, but his unique perception of the world and his use of accommodation tools are enough to give you clues. As an uncle to a special needs child, I find this story striking, personal, and human as Samuel exhibits certain characteristics that reflect my beloved nephew. It also sends a message that children without special needs should learn to become more comfortable with differences and foster more solid friendships when taught the value of inclusion. This is a highly recommended read for parents, children, teachers, civic groups, and counselors.
Masterpiece by Alexandra Hoffman is an apt title not only for the story it tells but as a word that best describes this book as a whole. Readers meet a young boy named Samuel who loves the color blue. He sees the world in different shades of blue as evidenced by his artworks and personal stuff. One day at school, his teacher tells the class to draw a picture of themselves and their families and to be sure to add lots of colors. Of course, for Samuel, everything looks awesome in blue. Each student draws a picture showing their quality time with their family and shares it in class. When it is Samuel’s turn to share his artwork, his teacher describes it as a masterpiece. But will his classmates agree?
Masterpiece is one of those rare and inspiring books that tackle the theme of inclusion, and it is effective in handling the subject with sensitivity, compassion, and encouragement. Alexandra Hoffman gives the perfect treatment to her character, and Beatriz Mello’s solid and colorful illustrations amplify it. Hoffman doesn’t even mention that Samuel is a child with special needs, but his unique perception of the world and his use of accommodation tools are enough to give you clues. As an uncle to a special needs child, I find this story striking, personal, and human as Samuel exhibits certain characteristics that reflect my beloved nephew. It also sends a message that children without special needs should learn to become more comfortable with differences and foster more solid friendships when taught the value of inclusion. This is a highly recommended read for parents, children, teachers, civic groups, and counselors.
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Pebbles and the Biggest Number
Joey Benun
2023 Gold Medal
48 Pages
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Children - Picture Book
Reviewed by Grace Ruhara for Readers' Favorite
Pebbles and the Biggest Number by Joey Benun is a children’s book full of fun facts and new vocabulary to enjoy. Pebbles, the butterfly, is curious to learn about the biggest number in existence apart from the usual small numbers such as tens, hundreds, and thousands he knows. He sets off on a quest to find out what that number is from his friends, such as Mr. Camel, Ms. Eel, Mr. Dog, and Ms. Butterfly. On his way, each subsequent friend educates him on a new and even bigger number than the previous friend, as they equate the number from something in their surroundings, such as Mr. Frog saying the biggest number that he knows is three trillion since that is the number of trees growing on earth.
Joey Benun has used brightly colored illustrations that capture children’s attention and attract their curiosity to discover his message. The images also summarize this book’s message in a graphical manner, which children can easily recall. There is a glossary of words with definitions of terms learned from each friend Pebbles visits. The words include atom, hurricane, avalanche, and septillion, which children of younger ages may not be familiar with. These words help build the child’s vocabulary in speech and writing to communicate effectively. Benun has included fun facts about the environment children will enjoy learning on each page. I recommend Pebbles and the Biggest Number to young readers as it will give them incredible information about their surroundings.
Pebbles and the Biggest Number by Joey Benun is a children’s book full of fun facts and new vocabulary to enjoy. Pebbles, the butterfly, is curious to learn about the biggest number in existence apart from the usual small numbers such as tens, hundreds, and thousands he knows. He sets off on a quest to find out what that number is from his friends, such as Mr. Camel, Ms. Eel, Mr. Dog, and Ms. Butterfly. On his way, each subsequent friend educates him on a new and even bigger number than the previous friend, as they equate the number from something in their surroundings, such as Mr. Frog saying the biggest number that he knows is three trillion since that is the number of trees growing on earth.
Joey Benun has used brightly colored illustrations that capture children’s attention and attract their curiosity to discover his message. The images also summarize this book’s message in a graphical manner, which children can easily recall. There is a glossary of words with definitions of terms learned from each friend Pebbles visits. The words include atom, hurricane, avalanche, and septillion, which children of younger ages may not be familiar with. These words help build the child’s vocabulary in speech and writing to communicate effectively. Benun has included fun facts about the environment children will enjoy learning on each page. I recommend Pebbles and the Biggest Number to young readers as it will give them incredible information about their surroundings.
Recommend this book:
, but deep down, we’re all the same. We have a purpose. We were al...){kind=link}
Why Am I Here?
A Child's Book About Purpose
Naomi V. Dunsen-White
2022 Finalist
36 Pages
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Children - Picture Book
Reviewed by Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers' Favorite
Life is full of possibilities and what-ifs. You can be anything you want to be if only you believe in yourself. You can be an astronaut or a chef, a writer or a judge, or even a scientist. You might be different in how you look, in how you dress, even in abilities (or disabilities), but deep down, we’re all the same. We have a purpose. We were all meant to be here and there is a reason why we are here. But first, we must grow and learn and dream big, while working with others, caring for others, and accepting others. In our unique qualities lie our strengths and our power to make this world a better, more inclusive place to live.
Naomi V. Dunsen-White’s picture book story, Why Am I Here? A Child’s Book About Purpose, is a compassionate look at purpose and how we all fit into the grand scheme of this thing we call life. The concepts are presented in rhyming verse with a lyricism that will catch the attention of young readers. The author presents many possible careers a young person might aspire to and work toward, as well as what roads they might take and what roadblocks they might face. Life is a grand adventure, but the most important thing we all must remember is that we’re in this together and we must accept each other in spite, or because of, our differences. “We all have our dreams and a right to belong./ We stand together, united and strong.” These are powerful words to live up to. The author finishes the book with an interactive exercise, challenging young readers to think more deeply about the concepts they learned in the story. I love the illustrations – beautiful!
Life is full of possibilities and what-ifs. You can be anything you want to be if only you believe in yourself. You can be an astronaut or a chef, a writer or a judge, or even a scientist. You might be different in how you look, in how you dress, even in abilities (or disabilities), but deep down, we’re all the same. We have a purpose. We were all meant to be here and there is a reason why we are here. But first, we must grow and learn and dream big, while working with others, caring for others, and accepting others. In our unique qualities lie our strengths and our power to make this world a better, more inclusive place to live.
Naomi V. Dunsen-White’s picture book story, Why Am I Here? A Child’s Book About Purpose, is a compassionate look at purpose and how we all fit into the grand scheme of this thing we call life. The concepts are presented in rhyming verse with a lyricism that will catch the attention of young readers. The author presents many possible careers a young person might aspire to and work toward, as well as what roads they might take and what roadblocks they might face. Life is a grand adventure, but the most important thing we all must remember is that we’re in this together and we must accept each other in spite, or because of, our differences. “We all have our dreams and a right to belong./ We stand together, united and strong.” These are powerful words to live up to. The author finishes the book with an interactive exercise, challenging young readers to think more deeply about the concepts they learned in the story. I love the illustrations – beautiful!
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