Review by Booklist Review
After baby Rasheed's family brings him home from the hospital, he sees his big brother, Anthony, for the first time. As Daddy positions him on Anthony's shoulder for burping, the older boy says, "There, there, baby bro, I got you." When Rasheed reaches toddlerhood, Anthony makes time to show him how to build towers of blocks, knock them down, and rebuild them. He promises to be there when thunder rattles their home, and he keeps his promise. Rasheed learns to "fly" off a swing, dress himself for church, and ride a bike, all with help from his big brother. Occasionally, Rasheed can even join "the big dogs," Anthony and his friends, for a bike ride. One day, the brothers learn that a new baby will be joining the family. Soon after he arrives, Rasheed holds him close, saying "You're my little brother." "I got you. Always will." Dedicated to "all the big bros who laugh and protect and guide younger siblings," this moving picture book depicts a loving Black family with a strong bond between siblings. Barnes' simple, beautiful narrative is illuminated by Knight-Justice's expressive, digital illustrations. An enjoyable picture book for reading aloud in families with children who wonder about becoming an older sibling.
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
Review by Publisher's Weekly Review
Through the voice of soon-to-be middle child Rasheed, Barnes (The King of Kindergarten) honors older siblings' contributions to family dynamics. Rasheed's first memory is of elder brother Anthony, whose "electric smile" welcomed him to the family, portrayed as Black. ("I got him, Momma," Anthony says when holding the baby. "I'll be careful. I promise. He's my little brother.") As Rasheed grows, Anthony's guidance extends to building and toppling block towers, braving scary storms, and jumping into puddles. Stylized illustrations from Knight-Justice (Big Tune) layer bold patterns to capture the brothers' bond and joy in each other's company as Anthony both claims his own space and reassures Rasheed that, no matter what, "I got you." And when their parents announce a new addition, Rasheed is more than ready to take the reins, having learned from Anthony how to be a steady sibling, and echoing his older brother's promise to the infant ("I'll be careful. I promise.... You're my little brother"). It's a touching work that models secure attachments and strong sibling connections. Ages 3--7. Author's agent: Regina Brooks, Serendipity Literary. Illustrator's agent: Christy Ewers, CAT Agency. (July)
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Review by Kirkus Book Review
When Mom and Dad bring baby Rasheed home for the first time, it's love at first sight for big brother Anthony. As the boys grow, Anthony teaches his little sibling how to build a tower with blocks (and how to knock it down with a loud "WHOP!!!"), how to ride a bike, and even how to fly (through a well-timed leap from the swings). When thunder and lightning wake them both one night, Anthony assuages Rasheed's fears with the book's titular refrain: "I got you." But one day Anthony goes for a bike ride with his friends, leaving Rasheed alone and hurt. That night, Anthony explains that while he may spend time with his peers, his bond with Rasheed is unbreakable. And as the book comes to a close, with Mom and Dad introducing the boys to their new little sibling, Anthony leaves Rasheed with perhaps the greatest lesson of all: how to be a supportive big brother himself. Narrated by Rasheed, Barnes' text is elegant in its simplicity, loving yet never saccharine, and always emotionally honest. Using varied perspectives, Knight-Justice's richly hued, collagelike digital illustrations combine a patchwork of textures and patterns, immersing readers in this affectionate Black family's world. Greens and blues dominate the pages, bringing to life an idyllic suburban setting. Brotherly love and Black joy abound in this brilliantly told tribute to the ties that bind.(Picture book. 4-8) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
