Common Sense Media Review
By Diondra K. Brown
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Empowering celebration of kids and their potential.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 4+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
THE ME I CHOOSE TO BE explores the boundless potential that all kids have. The story particularly focuses on the beauty and story of Black and brown children, using powerful similes and metaphors. The kids are depicted in bold photographic images that show they are able to feel joyful and sad, while also being creators and bridge builders, among other things. "I am a planet, a limitless galaxy, and I am the me I choose to be" is a recurring phrase in the story to show that obstacles can't stop the creativity and capabilities kids posses. These children embody the hopes and dreams that previous generations have passed down to them.
Is It Any Good?
This is a stunning, lyrical ode to the beautiful nature of children's potential. The Me I Choose To Be will likely leave readers feeling enchanted and inspired. Regis and Kahran Bethencourt's outstanding photographs continue the work of the husband-and-wife team's GLORY: Magical Visions of Black Beauty, and perfectly capture the emotion of Natasha Anastasia Tarpley's uplifting words. The book's message that you can be anything you want to be, and all the things you dream of being at the same time, is a very powerful one.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the bold and bright images of kids featured in The Me I Choose To Be. Which page is your favorite? Why?
What do you want to be when you grow up? Who or what inspires you?
Use your imagination and dress up in a fun way like the kids in the book. Ask a parent or trusted adult to do a photo shoot with you!
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrators : Regis Bethencourt , Kahran Bethencourt
- Genre : Picture Book
- Book type : Non-Fiction
- Publisher : Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
- Publication date : October 19, 2021
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 4 - 8
- Number of pages : 40
- Available on : Hardback
- Award : Coretta Scott King Medal and Honors
- Last updated : July 12, 2022
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
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