BIG KIDS NO EVERYTHING

Learn the power and potential of the word no.

Many picture books extol the virtues of yes. Take that bath! Eat those veggies! But here, Kirwan takes a more nuanced view by savvily recasting proclamations of no into empowering statements. Set against crisp white backgrounds, the loose, sketchy, digitally created vignettes show a variety of relatable scenarios, while bold outlining provides eye-catching contrast. A cast of whimsical and diverse cartoon-style children have vibrant, expressive faces that show readers how it’s gonna go. Sometimes that friend with the oversized cymbals deserves that “Loud no.” There’s a regretful “no” over a ruined kite. A “small no” after a run-in with a cactus. Evocatively shaped and sized speech bubbles help communicate mood and tone. Some pages speak to caregivers—who hasn’t experienced the “hangry no” supermarket slump? Others will tickle children and adults alike, like a scene in which a feisty child streaks naked from the bathtub. Some “no”s are personal, like rejecting a gnarly pair of striped pants, while others, like a group of kiddos with protest signs, are a “very important no.” By reminding readers that saying no isn’t automatically negative but rather “part of growing” and developing self and autonomy, Kirwan showcases an oft-overlooked step in “learning how to be a big kid.” (This book was reviewed digitally.)

A fresh and charming take on “growing a voice.” This “no” book is a big yes.