Say Something by Peter H. Reynolds
Published by Orchard Books on February 26th 2019
ISBN: 0545865034
Pages: 40
Goodreads

Say Something is unique in its diversity and level of kindness shown between children.  Reynolds acknowledges all children and motivates them to raise their voices concerning justice and personal power.   Interactions within this book are positive and express empathy, we all need more of the ability to reach out to others and to speak up.

The illustrations are fairly simple and direct, they appear on backgrounds featuring many dots and vivid colors.  On one page the dots turn into birds reinforcing the message to “Keep saying it…and you may be surprised to find the whole world listening”.  Imagine how that sentence sounds to a shy child who has yet to find her/his voice. 

Building self-confidence and honoring the freedom of expression needs to be part of the educational process for all youngsters.   Add this to primary school media centers, put on public library shelves and gift to K – second grade teachers.  In addition school guidance counselors would appreciate a copy to use with students.

Reviewed by Jan Hamilton, youth services librarian in Scarborough, ME