I Am Courage

August 15, 2021
The sixth in a series by Verde and Reynolds that empowers children to be their best selves. A child with brown skin and straight black hair guides readers through a self-affirming profession of true courage. Far from presenting a perfect display of unwavering bravery, the child reveals that they tumble, waver, doubt, and fear all along the journey of a bike ride (read: life) when faced with obstacles like a dark path, a bridge over a ravine, even a scary dog. The child believes in their own strength and resilience to keep going. That resilience takes visual form in a flame icon on flags that the child shares with friends, a Black child with close-cropped natural hair and a White child with pink hair, helping them to find their own strength. Thus, the child emphasizes the role of friends in nurturing this flame, leaning on one other and sharing stories about scary, hard things. The child describes moving forward, taking a breath, digging deep, finding their center when things are tough--all crucial parts of social/emotional development and growing up. A vivid array of vibrant backgrounds evoke the range of moods experienced by the children, who themselves are drawn as distinct individuals with expressive faces. The text evolves from singular to plural pronouns, ending with the declarations: "We are strong. We are capable. We are important. / We are courage. // And we are triumphant." (This book was reviewed digitally.) For young readers who need help believing in themselves and for those with friends who do the same. (author's note) (Picture book. 4-7)

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October 1, 2021

K-Gr 2-The unnamed child protagonist, of uncoded gender, encounters multiple challenges that give them opportunities to be courageous. From going uphill into a scary forest to crossing a bridge, the protagonist quiets their mind to face and overcome each and every obstacle. They learn that being afraid doesn't mean that they can't persevere, and there's nothing wrong with asking for help. Likewise, they are able to help when others need them, whether that means being a listening ear or sharing their story. No matter what comes their way, they and their friends will be triumphant. This book is a well-timed reminder for the picture book audience of what it means to be courageous: that it starts with being afraid, then pushing through that fear to accomplish a goal. Verde presents the lesson in a collection of affirmations; the blending of traditional and digital art media comes together as a beautifully crafted backdrop to the story. The font also adds to the whimsy of the artwork and enhances this important story. VERDICT With a focus on mindfulness and the inclusion of additional yoga poses and breathing techniques, this cogent presentation of an abstract concept is an essential addition to most collections.-Myiesha Speight, formerly at Towson Univ., Baltimore

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