FICTION

Not So Small at All

illus. by Sandra Magsamen. 40p. Sourcebooks. Feb. 2018. Tr $10.99. ISBN 9781492637073.
COPY ISBN
PreS-Gr 2—The book's upbeat, positive message is that being small is no obstacle to doing big things. Tiny seeds, bees, ants, hummingbirds, and butterflies are all used as examples of small but mighty things. The layout is simple and graphic in style. A full page of text on each verso is accompanied by spare childlike line drawings on the right. While the illustrations chosen for the small creatures are bright and colorful, the ones for feelings and ideas are decorative hearts, and not as engaging. A center spread spells out the book's takeaway: "You might not have known it, but you're amazing too! There are incredible things only you can do!" The last four pages provide a quick recap with facts and photos about the "not so small things."
VERDICT A book full of affirmations designed to empower children and help boost their self-esteem. A serviceable but nonessential purchase.

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