I am somebody

The creators urge reader empowerment with this message-driven story about taking action. During a school day, a Black child witnesses numerous moments when things aren't as they should be--from trash on the sidewalk and queue-jumping students to microaggressions and student selfishness. In each instance, the narrator reflects on the need for change, applying the refrain "Somebody should." Slowly, the narrator awakens to the idea that "I am Somebody," and examples pivot to positive interventions and the way they might inspire others. Williams's sometimes formal-sounding first-person phrasings and Evans's flatly colored, character-driven renderings convey moments of helpfulness and activism as the protagonist picks up trash, serves lunch at a cafeteria, and protests for the environment. A concluding affirmation--"I am Somebody/ who will make a difference in the world"--articulates a can-do takeaway. Ages 4--8. (June)

Be a "somebody" who makes a difference! A Black child witnesses various transgressions over the course of a day. Noticing trash on the walk to the bus stop, the young narrator thinks, "Somebody should do something about that." Two students push their way ahead of everyone else in order to get good seats on the school bus, prompting the child to muse, "Somebody should speak up about that." Throughout the day, the child notices examples of bullying and unfairness. These seemingly minor infractions start mounting. Finally, when the protagonist's teacher tells the students that it's snack time, the narrator notices that some students don't have anything to eat. Instead of wishing for a "somebody," the perceptive pupil realizes, "I am Somebody" and shares food with the others. The epiphany doesn't stop there. When the narrator arrives home and notices there are toys everywhere but Mom is on a work call, the child responds to Mom's request for help by cleaning up the mess. Accompanied by simple yet expressive illustrations, this is a loving and much-needed story that encourages kids to make a difference; pair it with Joshunda Sanders' I Can Write the World (2019), illustrated by Charly Palmer. (This book was reviewed digitally.) Empowerment to children to be the change they wish to see in the world. (Picture book. 4-8) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.