Action Jasmine

PreS-Gr 3--Readers meet Jasmine, a girl who has big ideas for action and mystery but finds it easier to work in the shadows. Her grandfather notices her reticence and suggests that she go incognito to the park. At the park, Jasmine, with pale skin, dark hair, and pink glasses, finds lots of rescues to perform and villains to thwart. As her grandpa goes for a little break, Jasmine sees a fellow hero and finds the courage to ask him to play. The story shows the internal struggle of a child who is hesitant to join in, feels invisible, and longs for adventure. The superhero device is a clever way to help children see that bravery often means just beginning. For librarians looking to support early readers or emerging readers with SEL themes, this is a fine choice. The pastel-colored artwork captures Jasmine's energy and shyness and desire to do good things. VERDICT A good choice for those looking to add to their collections, particularly the social-emotional learning shelves.--Debbie Tanner

A shy young girl channels her inner superhero. Jasmine is creative but cautious, more comfortable hiding behind her salmon-colored glasses than stepping into the spotlight. But when Grandpa reads her tales of adventure each night, her imagination expands, and she becomes "Action Jasmine," a fearless hero whose exploits she details in the pages of her sketchbook. When Grandpa encourages her to visit the park, she dons a bold disguise as she embarks on an even bolder mission: making a friend. Giang's narrative offers a gentle, empathetic look at the common challenge of connecting with peers. Jasmine's internal struggle--brave in her mind, anxious in reality--is portrayed with authenticity and heart, while her relationship with Grandpa demonstrates how supportive adults can help build young people's self-assurance. Kang's energetic illustrations shift playfully between fantasy and reality to convey Jasmine's nerves, excitement, and determination. A cool blue-green palette grounds the scenes, while bursts of bright orange highlight Jasmine's courageous moments. Vocabulary boosts (incognito,undercover) are explained with humor, helping build burgeoning readers' confidence in language. This reassuring picture book validates big feelings and celebrates the small acts of bravery required to forge new connections. Shy children, especially those with rich imaginations, will see themselves reflected--and encouraged to take one step forward. Jasmine and Grandpa present East Asian. A heartfelt reminder that courage grows through imagination, persistence, and people who believe in us.(Picture book. 3-8) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.