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Picture Book Review – I Am You: A Book About Ubuntu

March 10, 2022
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Accepting Differences, Ages 4-8, Children's Book Reviews, Culture and Customs, Emotions & Feelings, Juvenile Fiction, Kindness, Love, Multicultural stories, Social Situations - Friendship

I AM YOU:
A Book About Ubuntu

Written by Refiloe Moahloli

Illustrated by Zinelda McDonald

(Amazon Crossing Kids; $17.99, Ages 4-8)

★Starred Review – School Library Journal

Originally published in South Africa, I Am You: A Book About Ubuntu written by Refiloe Moahloli and illustrated by Zinelda McDonald, is a stunning visual and textual reminder of our shared humanity that could not be more timely.

An ancient philosophy of many African cultures, ubuntu means “I am, because you are” and embraces the idea that “a person is a person through other people.” Opening lines emphasize this interconnectedness: “When I look into your eyes, I see myself.” On the following page, readers will need to turn the book vertically to enjoy a spread that illustrates this love, not only for others but for the natural world and all creation.

iamyou int1 — Interior spread from I Am You: A Book About Ubuntu written by Refiloe Moahloli and illustrated by Zinelda McDonald, Amazon Crossing Kids ©2022.

In loving, lyrical language, Moahloli’s text helps us realize that though the time we spend with others and the kindnesses we share may seem like small, inconsequential acts, they’re in fact powerful expressions of our deep love for each other and for our own selves. “[W]hen I laugh as I hear you laugh, when I hold your hands as you cry, I love you, and I love myself, too.” Similarly, if we choose to “hurt,” “tease,” or “ignore” another, we are committing those very acts on ourselves.

iamyou int2 — Interior art from Interior spread from I Am You: A Book About Ubuntu written by Refiloe Moahloli and illustrated by Zinelda McDonald, Amazon Crossing Kids ©2022.

Rendered in digital media, McDonald’s bold and beautiful jewel-toned illustrations place an endearing cast of characters front and center in virtually every page. Readers are drawn into the smiling faces and welcoming gaze of an inclusive group of children from all backgrounds and abilities, playing together in country, city, and oceanside settings.

A great conversation starter for themes of community, friendship, kindness, and love, I Am You shines light on the truth that we are all one.

•Reviewed by Armineh Manookian

Picture Book Review – Sylvia Finds a Way

SYLVIA FINDS A WAY

Written by Stephanie Shaw

Illustrated by Fiona Lee

(West Margin Press; $17.99; Ages 5-8)

When a tiny slug and her animal friends discover a beautiful garden full of delicious food, they attempt to fill their bellies using one of their strengths in the sweet picture book, Sylvia Finds a Way. Unfortunately, a vigilant gardener stands ready, and each animal BOUNDS, DARTS, or FLIES away with an empty tummy … until Sylvia comes along.

Sylvia Finds a Way int1 — Interior spread from Sylvia Finds a Way written by Stephanie Shaw and illustrated by Fiona Lee, West Margin Press 2021.

Confident in her own brand of quiet strength, Sylvia’s way teaches kids that there are different kinds of strength. And that often, the best way to solve a problem is not with physical strength, but with patience and words.

Sylvia Finds a Way int2 — Interior spread from Sylvia Finds a Way written by Stephanie Shaw and illustrated by Fiona Lee, West Margin Press 2021.

Stephanie Shaw and Fiona Lee’s depiction of this unlikely hero is sure to find fans among yoga and garden enthusiasts. Lee’s expressive art is a perfect complement to Shaw’s simple and satisfying story. The earthy color palette allows Sylvia’s “slime” trail of silvery, shiny gloss to take center stage, keeping even the youngest readers entranced. Throw in some fun yoga poses, and this book makes a delightful, interactive read-aloud.

Sylvia Finds a Way int3 — Interior art from Sylvia Finds a Way written by Stephanie Shaw and illustrated by Fiona Lee, West Margin Press 2021.

From School Library Journal: “Shaw’s evocative descriptions of the flora and fauna will engage young readers and the author’s note gives factual information about slugs and their value to the garden’s ecosystem … The balance between boisterous action and meditative zen makes this title a standout among yoga picture books. A fun, frolicking tale, and welcome addition to picture book collections, that sneaks in an etiquette lesson without feeling overly didactic.”

• Reviewed by Roxanne Troup