March 1, 2024
Affirmations from mothers to their daughters abound in this pro-girl picture book. The opening spread shows a brown-skinned mother, dressed in a beautifully patterned orange and yellow African print dress with matching head wrap, holding a darker-skinned infant. The two gaze into each other's eyes. This image appears inside a golden frame, held aloft by hands that match the baby's skin. Speaking in second person, an unseen maternal narrator tells the little one, "There are billions of people in this world, but they are not you. / That's why you are remarkable." Throughout, girls from different cultural backgrounds, with varying skin tones and hair textures, hear negative comments from others, while the motherly voice offers a comeback for each one. "If they sneer and say, 'Your nose is too wide, '" the narrator says, "You must hold your head high and tell them / you are a reflection of your ancestors' beauty." This guidance will help Black and brown children facing common microaggressions. The advice will also make children from the dominant culture aware of the damage of these hurtful remarks. Incorporating deep, rich colors, Avelino's personable images depict joyful girls overcoming discrimination and confidently moving through the world. Several illustrations also remind girls that family and ancestors can affirm their worth. Will boost girls' self-esteem while giving them concrete tools for thriving. (Picture book. 4-7)
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Starred review from April 1, 2024
PreS-Gr 3-Poet Nyoko's debut picture book is a lyrical celebration of individuality penned in a rhythm that begs to be read aloud. The premise, that every person's unique qualities may not always be understood and honored, is met with an uplifting series of responses. Hair too coily? No, it's a magnificent crown. Voice too loud? No, it "will tell the world your unique story." Nyoko deftly balances empowering language with more specific imagery: darker skin mirrors that of ancient queens whose statues can be found in museums, and a wider nose is a connection to the ancestors. Avelino elegantly interprets Nyoko's words, imbuing them with warmth and an approachable beauty, and bringing her own impeccable sense of balance. Some pages boast broad, colorful depictions of flowers and butterflies, while others are minimalistic and quiet. The layout always leaves room for the words to breathe. The loveliness of the illustrations is a kid-friendly one, and many readers will see themselves here-some for the first time. There are mosques and headwraps, a bald ballerina and an Ashanti queen. Short enough to be read aloud, but important enough to be put in the hands of older readers, this book should be in every library. VERDICT A flat-out stunner, this book is a loving ode to strength and potential, enthusiastically recommended for all libraries.-Kate Newcombe
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