YOU ARE LOVED

There’s no one way to be a family.

As the book opens, Sofia Sanchez, a White-presenting actor and model with Down syndrome who inspired O’Hair to write this tale, introduces readers to her family—her mother was born in California, her father was born in Mexico, and she was born in Ukraine. She explains that her parents had three biological sons when they decided to adopt her when she was a baby. They have more family nearby and farther away, and they often go on adventures together. The rest of the book makes clear that families are all different. They can live under one roof or be scattered across the globe. No family is perfect, but each is bound by love. Ultimately, families are those that make you feel good, who lift you up, and who make you feel “happy” and “strong.” This extended ode to families is heartwarming and inclusive, depicting racially diverse and interracial families as well as characters who vary in terms of ability and religion. Several characters reappear throughout the cheery illustrations; so many families are shown that they all often mingle in various scenes. The images bring life and energy to the narrative. A note from Sofia's mother closes out the book. (This book was reviewed digitally.)

Overflowing with fond appreciation.