YOU CAN DO HARD THINGS

In Sutton’s debut picture book, a mother advises her children on how to face various difficulties.

“Lift me higher, Mama. / No, baby girl, you don’t need my help. / But it’s hard, Mama. / Yes, but you CAN DO hard things.” This exchange sums up the premise of this story of a parent who listens to her children’s problems and offers the support they need to find their own way. The fears grow more complex as the children age, with elementary school friend disagreements, high school exams, young-adult dating, and uncertainties of expectant parenthood. On each occasion, a message is repeated in distinctive yellow text: “you CAN DO hard things.” The story ends with the poignant realization that one day children will face the loss of a parent. Sutton writes in a straightforward style, expounding on the mother’s responses in a way that suggests that the book is aimed more at parents than young children. Mueller’s full-color illustrations effectively portray characters’ emotion and back the unfolding story. A particularly beautiful snowy scene perfectly captures the notion of parents watching over their children. The main characters are depicted with pale skin, and background figures have a range of skin tones.

A heartfelt picture book that will stay with readers through the years.