Bomgaars, Megan. Born Brave. Quiel Ramos, Illus. Flowerpot, 3/2024. [26]pp. Picture Book. Trade $12.99. 978-1-4867-2786-5. GRADES Kindergarten–1. ADDITIONAL.
What does it mean to be brave? This feel-good, self-esteem building title uses an anthropomorphic, zebra-looking child to demonstrate many ways that kids are brave, including learning to walk, going to the dentist, getting a haircut, or trying a new sport. Each new thing being attempted, or thing that can be scary, is shown as a type of bravery that helps make you stronger and feel better about yourself. Digital illustrations mix with different amounts of white space or number of illustrations per page (varying from one to three). A straightforward, easily understandable way to demonstrate this abstract term, all while lifting up the reader by reminding them how brave they have already been by getting through difficult, scary situations.
Joshua Rees—Daly City Public Library