THE STORY OF YOU

This picture book frames the actions one takes in life as a person’s story and encourages readers to write theirs well.

“You’re writing a story / with everything you do. / What’s this story about? / It’s the story of you!” So begins this inspirational poem matched with images of diverse children doing all sorts of activities and making decisions that add to their stories. Using social examples, like being kind and fair or sharing, as well as individual examples like trying something new and exploring, the text places the power in the individual’s hands. A turn in tone reminds readers that when they face moral dilemmas or feel shy or angry, they are still writing their stories. Without telling readers how to proceed, it highlights those moments of consequential decision-making. The text and powerful close-up imagery also elevate choices to do the brave thing or the right thing when it’s not easy—“when you’re scared, but speak up”—as important story-writing moments. Joyful, innocently smiling children of various racial presentations and physical abilities play sports, dance, make art, protest, and play in pastel-hued illustrations that alternate among vignettes, full-page portraits, and double-page scenes. The rhyming stanzas make this an enjoyable read, and the unique but simple concept offers a thoughtful way to begin ongoing discussions about choices with young people. (This book was reviewed digitally.)

A message worth sharing.