I Am So Brave!

Starred review from June 2, 2014
An African-American preschooler stars in this fourth book in Krensky and Gillingham’s board book series about children overcoming fears and showing off their knowledge and skills. Krensky showcases common fears (dogs, swimming, the dark, etc.), but bolsters each moment of uncertainty with one of affirmation. “I was scared of good-byes,” he writes as Gillingham shows the boy sobbing when it’s time for school. “Now I’m happy to wave,” reads the opposing page. Gillingham’s distinctive graphics, with their weathered retro aesthetic, and consistent positive reinforcement throughout make this outing another winner. Ages 1–3. Illustrator’s agent: Amy Rennert, Amy Rennert Agency.

This upbeat ode to conquering fears will resonate with tots both timid and not. The sparse text of this sturdy board book is a series of three quatrains, presented one brief line per spread, describing the various fears a little boy has overcome: "I was scared of big dogs. / Then I made a new friend. // I was scared of the water. / Now I love the deep end." Having also conquered fears of the dark, loud horns and goodbyes, he proclaims on the final pages: "I'm not scared like before. / I am so brave!" The skillful verses read smoothly and depict situations that toddlers and preschoolers will relate to. The illustrations center around a wide-eyed African-American child as the main character, with Caucasian children also populating some of the scenes, including the final spread, which features the narrator leaping boldly into a pit of colored balls. The design and color scheme, mostly bright blues, yellows and reds, give the title a distinctly vintage feel, which will lend it appeal to both adults and children. A comforting celebration of everyday courage with lots of charm to boot. (Board book. 1-3) COPYRIGHT(1) Kirkus Reviews, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

December 1, 2014

PreS-In this appealing selection, a sweet, engaging narrator shares some of his experiences overcoming his initial trepidation and trying new things. Gillingham's bold, graphic-style art is expressive and exuberant and perfectly complements the empowering text to help toddlers as they begin to grow and explore their worlds.

Copyright 2014 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.