Starred review from July 1, 2022
PreS-Gr 2-This book's opening pages begin immediately with a positive and all-around warm message, with its beautifully drawn pictures that celebrate all of the unique bodies of different people around the world. Everyone is accepted in this picture book, which provides a great foundation for young children who notice and inquire about differences-specifically, physical differences-in those around them. The pictures appear to have been completed with whimsical, muted watercolors. Young and old, big and small, every body is honored in this book. Among the book's many highlights is the inclusivity found in "some bodies have two feet" and "some bodies have one," as well as people who choose to "cover their bodies with clothes" or let "a lot of skin show." There is minimal writing on each page; a sentence or two drives each point home succinctly. Everyone is unique, some of us are similar to one another, and this is captured with ease. Kennen encourages loving one's own body "because your body is you and what's not to like?"-a fine message for children at every age. Included is a helpful letter for adults with tips for answering possible questions that may arise. This is the perfect introduction for body positivity and celebrating different skin colors, abilities, and appearances with poise and delicacy. VERDICT An excellent choice as a read-aloud in an elementary setting or as an independent choice for children ready to tackle simple language on their own or with a family member.-Kerra Mazzariello
Copyright 2022 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.
June 15, 2022
"All bodies are good-- / that's important to know. / And yours is good too, / however you grow!" This theme carries throughout this rhyming picture book that shows off people's bodies in all their forms. Depicted are people who use prosthetics or wheelchairs, who have different skin tones (people with vitiligo are included, too), who wear head scarves, who use cochlear implants, who have tattoos and surgical scars (possibly indicating gender-affirmation surgery), and more. The book ends with a note to parents, caregivers, and teachers about the importance of talking about how people's bodies look and function differently and sample questions from children (e.g., "Why is that man fat?") and neutral, body-positive answers. This book definitely practices what it preaches. O'Callaghan's illustrations represent body diversity and include people of various skin tones, shapes, sizes, and abilities. With warm colors and varied settings, the art is inviting and engaging. Kennen's text offers no judgment, just simple descriptions with the mantra that "all bodies are good." There is even additional discussion about people making some choices about how their bodies look (letting skin show, getting tattoos, wearing a wig). (This book was reviewed digitally.) An important, affirming conversation starter about respecting--and celebrating--diverse bodies. (Picture book. 4-7)
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