Children’s Book Review: I Am Every Good Thing

I received this book for free from publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

I Am Every Good Thing by Derrick Barnes
Illustrator: Gordon C. James
Published by Penguin on 2020
Pages: 32
Format: ARC, eBook
Source: publisher
Goodreads

An upbeat, empowering, important picture book from the team that created the award-winning Crown: An Ode to the Fresh Cut
I am a nonstop ball of energy. Powerful and full of light. I am a go-getter. A difference maker. A leader.
The confident Black narrator of this book is proud of everything that makes him who he is. He's got big plans, and no doubt he'll see them through--as he's creative, adventurous, smart, funny, and a good friend. Sometimes he falls, but he always gets back up. And other times he's afraid, because he's so often misunderstood and called what he is not. So slow down and really look and listen, when somebody tells you--and shows you--who they are. There are superheroes in our midst!

Also by this author: Victory. Stand!: Raising My Fist for Justice

This book is everything that I wish existed when my brother and I were growing up! As I read this with my four year old son, he saw himself on every page, exclaiming “That’s me Mommy! Wait turn back! That’s me when I get my skateboard Mommy!”

All of the images – from when the little boy is skateboarding to flying like a superhero – spoke to my son and his interests and experiences as a little Black boy. This book needs to be a staple in every single elementary classroom to show everyone what black boy joy can look like. This book provides all children with images of what being a boy is like. It provides a desperately needed mirror for black boys and a window for children of other cultures to see the humanity of black boys.

• Would I Read It Again?: Yes! This book is going to be on repeat for story time.
• Educator Recommended: Yes and it should be read more than just during Black History Month. This book supports the work of Dr. Rudine Bishop’s Mirrors, Windows and Sliding Doors and should be read to ALL children.

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