Copyright Date:
2019
Edition Date:
2019
Release Date:
09/15/19
Illustrator:
Barouch, Gabriella,
Pages:
1 volume (unpaged)
ISBN:
1-946873-75-6
ISBN 13:
978-1-946873-75-0
Dewey:
E
LCCN:
2019900773
Dimensions:
32 cm.
Language:
English
Reviews:
Kirkus Reviews
A young child explores the unlimited potential inherent in all humans."Have you ever wondered why you are here?" asks the second-person narration. There is no one like you. Maybe you're here to make a difference with your uniqueness; maybe you will speak for those who can't or use your gifts to shine a light into the darkness. The no-frills, unrhymed narrative encourages readers to follow their hearts and tap into their limitless potential to be anything and do anything. The precisely inked and colored artwork plays with perspective from the first double-page spread, in which the child contemplates a mountain (or maybe an iceberg) in their hands. Later, they stand on a ladder to place white spots on tall, red mushrooms. The oversized flora and fauna seem to symbolize the presumptively insurmountable, reinforcing the book's message that anything is possible. This quiet read, with its sophisticated central question, encourages children to reach for their untapped potential while reminding them it won't be easy—they will make messes and mistakes—but the magic within can help overcome falls and failures. It's unlikely that members of the intended audience have begun to wonder about their life's purpose, but this life-affirming mood piece has honorable intentions. The child, accompanied by an adorable piglet and sporting overalls and a bird-beaked cap made of leaves, presents white.More gift book than storybook, this is a meaningful addition to nursery bookshelves. (Picture book. 2-8)
School Library Journal
(Thu Aug 01 00:00:00 CDT 2019)
PreS-Gr 2 -A gentle, imaginative read brimming with positivity. Intricate illustrations in soft colors depict a child and their pet pig frolicking among whimsical scenes of the natural world. Straightforward prose with no more than a few sentences on each page encourages children to develop a creative, adventure-seeking spirit. Yamada invites readers to reflect on the possibilities within themselves and to stay resilient in the face of adversity. The lack of plot and emphasis on inspirational messaging make this book more likely to resonate with adults than with children, but young audiences will undoubtedly appreciate it in their more reflective moments. It makes a lovely bedtime read and a welcome baby shower gift, and it could be used in elementary classrooms to prompt a discussion about compassion and kindness ("Maybe you will help others see the beauty in each day? Maybe you will speak up for those who can't speak for themselves?"). VERDICT Stunning illustrations and uplifting themes make this volume a solid purchase for large picture book collections.-Allison Tran, Mission Viejo Library, CA
This enchanting tale by New York Times bestselling author Kobe Yamada is filled with striking, photorealistic illustrations and reminders that you were meant for incredible things and that anything is possible.