I WILL CARRY YOU

An Indigenous mother relates how she will always carry her child in this picture book.

A kid asks her mother, “Will you carry me… / And tell me just one story, / As we walk along the way?” As they go for a stroll, the mother explains “the story of how I will carry you, / On this and every day,” recounting how she literally and figuratively has supported her little one. For instance, the mother held the newborn child to “keep you safe from harm.” And when the baby became a toddler, “I carried you upon my shoulders, / Just to hear you laugh.” The mother also describes how the two will remain connected in the future even if they are physically apart: “When you’re all grown up, / And you can’t stay to play, / Then I will carry you, inside my heart.” Farwell was born and raised in the Crow Nation. Her evocative, heartwarming tale offers touching insights into strong family bonds. Readers will appreciate the sweet and tender examples of closeness. Grosch’s gorgeous illustrations are interpretations of renowned works by Indigenous artists. The unique spreads deftly supplement the expressive story. Most images emphasize nature elements, including leaves, flowers, and butterflies, in bold, appealing colors. Other pages reflect the two characters’ journeys, from the mother’s pregnancy to the child’s older years. One image shows the pair walking hand in hand to a school bus.

A poetic and sentimental parent-and-child tale featuring beautiful illustrations.