I Believe I Can

March 20, 2020

PreS-K-This picture book follow-up to I Am Enough is an inspirational "can do" paean to youth empowerment, encouraging readers to believe in themselves and dream big regardless of their skin color, racial background, or abilities. Bobo's digital illustrations, set against a white backdrop, depict a diverse set of children reaching, dreaming, playing, and achieving whatever they set their minds to. Although it is not breaking any new ground, this may be a useful title for teachers and caregivers looking for additional inspirational titles portraying children with varied abilities from a range of racial and cultural backgrounds. VERDICT An additional purchase. -Jessica Marie, Salem Public Library, OR

Copyright 2020 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

November 1, 2019
Diversity is the face of this picture book designed to inspire confidence in children. Fans of Byers and Bobo's I Am Enough (2018) will enjoy this book that comes with a universal message of self-acceptance. A line of children practices ballet at the barre; refreshingly, two of the four are visibly (and adorably) pudgy. Another group tends a couple of raised beds; one of them wears hijab. Two more children coax a trepidatious friend down a steep slide. Further images, of children pretending to be pirates, dragons, mimes, playing superhero and soccer, and cooking, are equally endearing, but unfortunately they don't add enough heft to set the book apart from other empowerment books for children. Though the illustrations shine, the text remains pedagogic and bland. Clich�s abound: "When I believe in myself, there's simply nothing I can't do"; "Sometimes I am right, and sometimes I am wrong. / But even when I make mistakes, I learn from them to make me strong." The inclusion of children with varying abilities, religions, genders, body types, and racial presentations creates an inviting tone that makes the book palatable. It's hard to argue with the titular sentiment, but this is not the only book of its ilk on the shelf. Banal affirmation buoyed by charming illustrations. (Picture book. 3-5)

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January 1, 2020
Preschool-G Filled with warmth, positive affirmations, and good vibrations, the creative team behind I Am Enough (2018) delivers a heartfelt exploration of the idea that believing in oneself is key to achieving one's goals. This work focusing on the socio-emotional development of children by helping children develop their self-esteem and self-efficacy in the early grades. Soft illustrations set against white backgrounds feature scenes that capture the beauty of all children. Kids of all races, religions, and creeds are shown in ballet class together, playing make-believe, gardening, and being superheroes, underscoring the message that children are at their very best when working together. The author and illustrator do a great job of creating a work that is both a window and a mirror, and their story will be useful for reading aloud and lessons on friendship, building self-concept, and learning life lessons. This lovely picture book ends with positive messaging? My presence matters in the world. My life is worthy . . . I know I can do anything ?which can't help but boost young readers' confidence.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2020, American Library Association.)