Copyright Date:
2022
Edition Date:
2022
Release Date:
09/27/22
Illustrator:
Reynolds, Peter H.
Pages:
1 volume (unpaged)
ISBN:
1-419-74648-0
ISBN 13:
978-1-419-74648-2
Dewey:
E
LCCN:
2022936537
Dimensions:
21 cm
Language:
English
Reviews:
Kirkus Reviews
A celebration of difference, connection, and community.Verde and Reynolds continue their "I Am" picture books with this installment encouraging individuality. A nameless child with brown skin and tight purple curls leads the way. Throughout, a silver remote-control dog, an orange cat, a lion, and another nameless person, with brown skin and a larger body frame, weave in and out alongside statements such as "Difference is what makes life beautiful and miraculous." Caregivers may want to encourage little ones to spot the characters as they read or listen-a straightforward way to engage alongside the high-level messages of the book. The primary character grows to care and ultimately declare love for the other human character-which could be read as deep friendship or romantic love. "I" statements dominate the text, offering conversation starters. Statements like "I can surround myself with those who see me, stand up for me, and support me" may require longer explanations or discussion. These are balanced by simpler declarations like "I can dance to my own rhythm any time I want to move and groove." Text and illustrations, featuring graceful, energetic linework, will draw a wide audience. The content will be most meaningful for children who need the confidence boost offered to stay true to themselves while still seeking positive relationships. (This book was reviewed digitally.)Predictably upbeat and inviting. (author's note with meditation instructions) (Picture book. 4-7)
Embrace individuality and being your authentic self in I Am Me, a picture book companion to New York Times bestsellers I Am Human and I Am Love!
Sometimes I stand out in a crowd.
Sometimes I am not seen at all, and I feel alone.
I start to ask myself, why can’t I blend in? Fit the mold?
But when I stop and look, I see nothing in this world is exactly the same.
Sometimes we hide who we really are to conform to the way we think we are supposed to be in the world. Sometimes we compare ourselves to others and feel we don’t fit in. But when we realize we are something to be celebrated and we proudly live out loud as our true selves, we can make our unique mark on the world—and share our joy!
From author Susan Verde and illustrator Peter H. Reynolds, the #1 New York Times bestselling team behind the I Am series, comes a bighearted celebration of individuality, of being comfortable in our own skin, respecting others for who they are, living authentically, and loving ourselves. For anyone who’s ever felt like too much or not enough, I Am Me is an affirming reminder that difference is what makes life beautiful—and that each of us matters, just as we are.