The Adventures of Qai Qai
Confidence and friendship are center stage in adorable book.
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this book.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that The Adventures of Qai Qai is the first picture book by legendary tennis player Serena Williams. It is a story of believing in yourself in order to shine your light in the world. The story features Baby Girl, a charming main character of color, and her bubbly sidekick Qai Qai, a baby doll who comes to life because Baby Girl believes. Qai Qai inspires Baby Girl with motivational statements like, "You're already good enough when you walk in the door!" and "Trust your instincts and let your bright light shine!" Beautiful illustrations by Yesenia Moises bring this story to life, accentuating Baby Girl's beautiful curls and spotlighting a mixed-race family.
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What's the Story?
In THE ADVENTURES OF QAI QAI, main character Baby Girl is gearing up for her big recital where she will shine onstage in a solo number. Though she loves to dance, she starts to get nervous as the event approaches. One night, she confides in her best friend and baby doll, Qai Qai, and her love for and belief in the doll brings her to life. Qai Qai's spunky demeanor and bubbly quips help Baby Girl envision herself dancing successfully and build the confidence she needs to get onstage. Will she nail her dance routine?
Is It Any Good?
Serena Williams evolves away from tennis and straight into the hearts of picture book lovers with this adorable, colorful story. The Adventures of Qai Qai is dedicated "to all little girls" by its superstar author with the powerful message: "Imagine it, believe it, do it." The story meets young girls right where they are and inspires them to believe in themselves. Baby Girl is a likable character that many young readers can relate to, and Qai Qai is the hype friend we all wish we had cheering us on through life. The captivating illustrations portray the beauty of this multiracial family.
The only thing that could make this book better is a more fitting title that captures the heart of the story. After all, it's not really about the adventures of Qai Qai, but about what she represents: belief in self and the awakening of that confident part of each of us that already exists deep within. Regardless, it is a good read-aloud for all young readers regardless of race or gender.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about friendship in The Adventures of Qai Qai. Do you have a doll, stuffed animal, or object that you consider your friend? What makes that toy a good friend to you? How is Qai Qai a good friend to Baby Girl?
How does Baby Girl's dad help her get ready for the big show? How does Baby Girl's mom help her get ready for the big show? How does Qai Qai help Baby Girl get ready for the big show?
Have you ever been afraid to do something? How did you get past your fear? What can you tell yourself when you are afraid?
Book Details
- Author: Serena Williams
- Illustrator: Yesenia Moises
- Genre: Picture Book
- Topics: Magic and Fantasy, Arts and Dance, Friendship, Great Girl Role Models
- Character Strengths: Courage, Teamwork
- Book type: Fiction
- Publisher: Feiwel & Friends
- Publication date: September 27, 2022
- Number of pages: 40
- Available on: Nook, Hardback, iBooks, Kindle
- Award: Common Sense Selection
- Last updated: September 30, 2022
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