I LOVE MYSELF

A child finds opportunities for self-love.

Each page begins with the phrase “I love myself,” with an example that follows. “I love myself even when I’m not perfect” is paired with an image of the nameless young narrator on a bike with training wheels. “I love myself when I say, ‘no’” accompanies an illustration of the protagonist holding up a hand to another youngster trying to take the child’s toy. Other examples include “I love myself when I tell my stories with crayons,” “when I try to understand my big feelings,” and “when I say ‘I’m enough.’” The concise text and refrains serve as mantras; indeed, many of the situations will apply to readers’ own lives. The child’s inner self is illustrated as an imaginary dog- or bear-like character who cheers the young narrator on at every turn. While this is meant to make a nebulous topic feel more concrete, caregivers might need to connect a few dots for little readers. The textured illustrations have a tender feeling that complements the text well; overall, this is a solid starting place to spark conversations about self-acceptance and one’s inner self. The child has light brown skin and dark hair; no gendered pronouns are used. Other characters are diverse in terms of hairstyles and skin colors.

A meaningful entry point to a complex, lifelong practice.