The Big Book About Being Big

PreS-Gr 2–The word big can be defined in a variety of ways, but this book sets out to convince readers that big does not necessarily have anything to do with size. The author takes a more philosophical approach, defining the word as a person’s ability to grow, serve, and connect. “Are you BIG yet? When, exactly, does BIG happen?” While they may be small, the characters engage in large acts that prepare them to be healthy, happy, and successful. A phrase is repeated throughout, “BIG is being the BIGGEST YOU that you can be,” following advice on ways to be big, such as being active, kind, and helpful. These suggestions are illustrated with an array of people, young and old, of different shapes, sizes, and abilities, all sharing and working together. A note at the end of the book describes ways that young people can begin to be metaphorically big, from reading each night to recycling to volunteering in their community. The suggestions focus not only on local community but also on a global community.