BE STRONG

Grace Capeless narrates Miller's picture book about the many ways a person can be strong. The young protagonist, a child of color with black, textured curls in Jen Hill's illustrations, doesn't have the physical strength to get to the top of the gym climbing wall. But family members point out that being strong can also mean "showing up" (for friends in need), "speaking up" (for community betterment), and "not giving up" (when faced with obstacles)--all practices that make positive change. Bolstered by judiciously chosen sound effects, Capeless's deliberate narration allows listeners to take in the illustrations' details. Hill's busier compositions will make listeners grateful for Capeless's unhurried delivery as they strive to spot Miller's protagonist and parse the action. Empowering. V.S. © AudioFile 2023, Portland, Maine [Published: DECEMBER 2023]