Picture this: Five picture books

 Picture books are quite possibly my favorite genre of art. The combining of artwork and writing in a way that appeals to all ages and allows for connections between generations is incredibly powerful. All of the books below are strong examples of books that show strength of character in the face of adversity, and finding a purpose.

I Am Every Good Thing by Derrick Barnes, illustrated by Gordon C. James

This is one of those books where I, as a 40 year old cishet white male, do not seem at all like the target audience. I have to disagree. This book is a perfect example of how universal a picture book can be. Barnes' writing is powerful in its ability to inspire a belief in the self. James' artwork is stunning, and captures the emotions of Barnes' words perfectly. Just an absolutely stunning, moving book that should be read by anyone and everyone who has ever wondered if they were enough.

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I Talk Like a River, by Jordan Scott. Illustrated by Sydney Smith.

A beautiful book about a boy with a stutter, coming to understand himself and understand his strengths. He finds support in his family and in nature, finding a feeling of belonging. I love the way the artwork changes throughout the story. When the boy is overwhelmed at school and having trouble, the artwork is harsh, messy, hard to follow. When he is calm, the artwork is clear, beautiful, and serene. A great example of how artwork can really impact the story in a way that may not even be noticed by many, but once you see it, it makes the message all the more striking. A beautiful book about disability and about acceptance.

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The Cot in the Living Room, by Hilda Eunice Burgos, illustrated by Gary D'Alessandro

Bright, colorful images help tell the tale of a girl who doesn't quite understand how lucky she is until she gains a new perspective. Other children come to stay at her home overnight while their parents/caregivers work nights. They get a bed in the front room all to themselves while she has to share a room with her sister. She doesn't think it's fair. One night, she gets a chance to sleep in that room, only to realize how strange it is, how scary and uncomfortable it is to be in an unfamiliar place, surrounded by unfamiliar sights and sounds. She learns to understand that she is lucky she gets to share her room with her sister. It's a nice book about perspective and about realizing how lucky we all are to have what we do have.

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A Different Pond, by Bao Phi, illustrated by Thi Bui

A story about a Vietnamese-American boy and his family. He and his father go out fishing before dawn on a Saturday morning, before both his parents have to go to work. Despite both working, they still need to catch fish in order to be able to eat, because America is expensive. The boy shows a deep respect, love, and admiration for his father and his mother, as well as a growing respect for himself. It's a really well done book about inner strength in the face of adversity, and about finding what truly matters in life, against any odds.

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We Are Water Protectors, by Carole Lindstrom, illustrated by Michaela Goade

Amazingly stunning artwork helps tell the tale of a young girl finding the strength to stand up for what she believes in. She is fighting for the good of herself, her community, and her world. Fantastic writing throughout is moving and powerful, but Goade's illustrations are what truly sell the book. "We are stewards of the Earth" the narrator states, and the book sells this message. It ends with a full page of information on Ojibwe culture and their movement to care for the Earth. The final page is an Earth Steward and Water Protector pledge for all to follow.