A thoughtful primer for children that comfortingly and articulately explains a delicate topic.
In this picture book, kids learn the difference between secrets that should be kept and those that should be shared.
Stephenson-Laws uses simple verse in an ABCB rhyme scheme to introduce the idea that there are different kinds of secrets: “Some secrets are sweet, / like a gift in a box, / But some hide a feeling / that squiggles and knocks.” Examples of “sweet” secrets include hiding a birthday card for dad’s surprise party. Examples of secrets that should be shared with a trusted adult are never explicitly stated and can therefore refer to a wide variety of circumstances. References to “words or touch” that feel “wrong or unclear”—along with the reminder that “your body is yours, / from your toes to your core”—heavily infer that such secrets involve sexual abuse. The book reassures readers they will never be blamed for what happened or for sharing the “secret.” Stephenson-Laws approaches a potentially tricky topic with empathy and actionable guidelines, such as encouraging kids to trust their gut by acting on the “twisty” and “yuck” feelings when asked to keep secrets they shouldn’t. Uzoka’s illustrations consist of beautiful watercolor blends in an old-fashioned style featuring diverse ethnicities. Unfortunately, they also reinforce the stereotype that only men can be predators. Despite this, the author’s reassuring words pair well with the images’ soft colors, resulting in a calming yet encouraging approach to a difficult issue.
A thoughtful primer for children that comfortingly and articulately explains a delicate topic.Pub Date: July 7, 2025
ISBN: 9798993974026
Page Count: 42
Publisher: N/A
Review Posted Online: Dec. 9, 2025
Review Program: Kirkus Indie
New parents of daughters will eat these up and perhaps pass on the lessons learned.
All the reasons why a daughter needs a mother.
Each spread features an adorable cartoon animal parent-child pair on the recto opposite a rhyming verse: “I’ll always support you in giving your all / in every endeavor, the big and the small, / and be there to catch you in case you should fall. / I hope you believe this is true.” A virtually identical book, Why a Daughter Needs a Dad, publishes simultaneously. Both address standing up for yourself and your values, laughing to ease troubles, being thankful, valuing friendship, persevering and dreaming big, being truthful, thinking through decisions, and being open to differences, among other topics. Though the sentiments/life lessons here and in the companion title are heartfelt and important, there are much better ways to deliver them. These books are likely to go right over children’s heads and developmental levels (especially with the rather advanced vocabulary); their parents are the more likely audience, and for them, the books provide some coaching in what kids need to hear. The two books are largely interchangeable, especially since there are so few references to mom or dad, but one spread in each book reverts to stereotype: Dad balances the two-wheeler, and mom helps with clothing and hair styles. Since the books are separate, it aids in customization for many families.
New parents of daughters will eat these up and perhaps pass on the lessons learned. (Picture book. 4-8, adult)Pub Date: May 1, 2019
ISBN: 978-1-4926-6781-0
Page Count: 32
Publisher: Sourcebooks Jabberwocky
Review Posted Online: March 16, 2019
Kirkus Reviews Issue: April 1, 2019
A colorful conversation starter about what heroism can mean.
In this picture book from former congressman and U.S. Air Force and Air National Guard officer Kinzinger, a father shows his child that heroes are found everywhere.
Christian is excited to learn that his class will be presenting about heroes in their lives. He knows exactly who he’s going to talk about: his father, an Air Force pilot. When Christian’s friend Ella declares that she will present on their teacher, Ms. Betty Jo, Christian is confused. Heroes protect people, like his father does, but Ms. Betty Jo “didn’t protect anyone.” When Christian tells his father that no one else in his class knows a real hero, Dad takes the boy on a trip in his single-engine plane. Christian observes different workers as his father explains their heroism in verse. The text switches back to prose as they land at a military cemetery, where Dad places a flag at the tombstone of a friend. Vibrant, episodic illustrations give the story momentum, while the detailed vignettes provide a good opportunity for young readers to discuss what’s happening in situations that call for doctors, police, 911 dispatch, the National Guard, and lifeguards, among others. Brief backmatter presents facts about some of the institutions and people who inspired the illustrations. Christian and Dad are pale-skinned; other characters are diverse.
A colorful conversation starter about what heroism can mean. (Picture book. 4-8)Pub Date: May 5, 2026
ISBN: 9781400252725
Page Count: 32
Publisher: Tommy Nelson
Review Posted Online: March 23, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: April 15, 2026
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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