Brave

August 1, 2017
Every kid faces challenges every day. And the brave persevere. McAnulty's text reads like an inspirational poem about superheroes, while Lew-Vriethoff's illustrations show a variety of kids doing the right thing in familiar situations. "A brave kid has super-strength" accompanies an illustration of a little redheaded girl with brown skin playing chess with deep focus against an elderly man, surrounded by a diverse gallery of intent faces. A little white boy in pajamas looks bravely under the bed, the text: "a courageous heart." A black boy sits on the shoulders of a taller, white friend to rescue a cat from a tree, while an olive-skinned teen visits a friend in the hospital: "And fights the toughest battles." The chess-playing little girl, now with a stuffed bear in her backpack, leads a line of ducklings and a friend across a path of stones on a stream: "A brave kid leads the team." A cafeteria full of students is the setting when an apparent bully is confronted: "And stands for justice." "Brave kids can save the world" accompanies a picture of several children picking up trash and discarded bottles in a park. Readers who've been spotting the recurring cast members will wonder why the wheelchair athlete is seen only once. A gentle reminder of everyday challenges and opportunities, told with economy, clarity, and earnestness if not great style. (Picture book. 3-6)

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November 1, 2017

PreS-Gr 2-When one thinks of the word "superhero," it is typically in reference to a fictional character from a comic book. Brave proves that anybody can be a superhero, even children. Superheroes display courage simply by checking under the bed at night. They show bravery by rescuing the local kitten. McAnulty uses everyday kids and everyday situations to show readers that they are capable of extraordinary things. The text is simple yet effective enough to leave a lasting impression. The cartoon illustrations are bold and bright and feature an array of diverse children as characters. A majority of young readers will be able to see themselves represented in the book, leaving them inspired to see the bravery in their own day-to-day decisions. VERDICT This heartwarming, affirming book is a must-have for most library collections. Great for one-on-one and small group sharing.-Jennifer Bludau, La Grange Independent School District, TX

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