Robinson, Christian. You Matter. Christian Robinson, Illus. Pic. Bk. Atheneum, 06/2020. [36]pp. $17.99. 978-1-5344-2169-1. HIGH ADDITIONAL. GRADES PRE-1.
A lively text encourages self-esteem with the repeated phrase “You matter,” even if you are small. This is a great choice for social and emotional learning, and part of the book shows a dinosaur, then a huge asteroid and its aftermath, and then Earth’s renewal, so there is a science connection. The illustrations add much to the text; for example, a red planet in a black universe accompanies the phrase “Even if you are really gassy. You matter.” The acrylic paint and collage artwork features a hand-lettered text and Robinson’s signature culturally diverse community members of all ages. A great book for teachers who can help children identify the elements relating to Earth’s evolution.
Penny Peck, San Jose State University, iSchool