HOW TO BE BRAVE

An encouraging message for kids as they embark on that adventure called life.

Trying something new can be scary, but friends can help us over hurdles. A young child with brown skin and curly dark hair experiences nature alongside animal pals such as a mouse, a cheetah, and a bear. The friends support one another—the child comforts a little elephant who looks on, overwhelmed, as others play in a watering hole. On the next spread, the child cheers as the elephant races a young zebra on the dusty plain—a playful and joyous moment. Each page contains spare text that acknowledges the anxiety that accompanies trying something new but also encourages kids to give it their all, take a step back if they need to, and try again. Images and words build to support the final message: “You might not know how each adventure will end…but you’re never alone when it is shared with friends.” Painterly illustrations of sweetly smiling animals burst with life, making this a good book for group reading, though children reading this independently will note smaller details and appreciate the vignettes, such as one depicting a polar bear pondering star constellations. Although aimed at younger readers, the book’s positive message would also make it a good gift for any reader in transition.

A reminder that though life is unpredictable, good friends can help you do anything and go anywhere.