THE VIBES BOOK

Think good thoughts and improve lives.

At the outset, the word vibes is defined as “a special kind of energy,” though Clarke doesn’t mention that the term is short for vibrations. She adds that vibes are “magical, invisible feelings and thoughts.” Though they can’t be seen, “You can feel them in your body and all around you.” Most young children likely won’t be familiar with the term, but it’s a concept worth learning about. Clarke emphasizes the importance of sending out positive energy into the world and receiving it in return: “The vibes that work the most magic are good vibes.” People who have good vibes are characterized as joyful and warm; they make those around them feel better. The author explains how to transmit good vibes: Just “think about somebody and imagine all your lovely thoughts and energy surrounding them.” On the flip side, readers are advised not to send on bad vibes, because neither recipients nor senders will feel good afterward. This simple, well-written, reassuring book stresses the power of positive thinking and living—good messages as children strive to make friends and navigate their way through the world. Spare, cartoonlike images follow a youngster with tan skin; most characters have paper-white skin, though there’s some diversity in terms of race and age.

Imparts sound takeaways about the power of positivity.