Publisher's Weekly Review
Originally published in Australia with Kickstarter funding, this thoughtfully compiled guide to body positivity and self-love provides definitions, affirmations, and guidance for "girls and those who identify as a girl." A note to the reader sets a distinct tone of openness and acceptance, explaining that the volume is meant to comfort, guide, and empower. Soft illustrations in warm hues by Rossetti give context and power to the resonant messages of self-acceptance and individuality, celebrating a multitude of experiences. On one spread, two women maneuver their wheelchairs while playing a sport; another depicts an inclusive group, including a young hijabi woman embracing a girl with stretch marks and armpit hair who is wearing a crop top. The definition of puberty and explanations of concepts such as "self-love" are coupled with accessible self-care tips and techniques, from stretching and crafting to helping others and reciting affirmations. A concluding "Now What?" section suggests body-positivity and self-care practices, followed by a list of mental health resources. Thoughtfully designed and executed, this book carries an important message for readers of all ages. Ages 8--12. (Mar.)
Kirkus Review
A picture book from Down Under that aims to uplift every body.A Kickstarter campaign funded this picture book, which Australian author Sanders hopes "will comfortguideand empower" readersespecially "girls and those who identify as a girl." Brazillian illustrator Rossetti endeavors to be inclusive, with depictions of a diverse range of bodies, including girls and women with a range of skin tones, hair textures and colors, and body types as well as a range of gender presentations and some visible disabilities. Some people have visible freckles, acne, body hair, cellulite, and stretch marks, and one person appears to have vitiligo. It is hard to track any individual characters from one spread to the next, but that isn't as necessary as it would be if the text had a narrative. It doesn't. Instead, this is a book that might best be described as a self-help picture book, filled with affirmations and explicit urgings toward self-care, self-love, and acceptance of others. The text also provides strategies for self-affirmation and for seeking help and support, though some tips are potentially exclusive of people with mobility disabilities and blind or deaf people. This edition's backmatter offers a list of U.S.-based support organizations, with a pointer to www.re-shape.info for resources in other countries.There's much to love here. (Picture book. 3-12) Copyright Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
