I Can Be...Me!

By Lesléa Newman

Illustrated by Maya Gonzalez

 

Publisher: Lee & Low Books 

Language: ‎English

Hardcover: ‎32 pages

ISBN-10: ‎1643792059

ISBN-13: ‎978-1643792057

 

 

From bestselling author Lesléa Newman — a joyful picture book celebration of individuality, uniqueness, and children's freedom to express themselves while engaging in whatever kinds of play they choose.

 

I can be everything I want to be,

I can be all of magnificent me!

 

In this lighthearted story, a group of six, colorfully clad children exuberantly explore -- through play -- the many ways they can be themselves. They are free to embrace all kinds of activities, reveling in the fun of trying new things and discovering new ways of being. They can shoot baskets, dance around a room, weave ribbons through their hair, swim like a mermaid, and more. There is no right way or wrong way. There are no binary expectations. Children explore their individuality through whatever kinds of play appeal to them.

 

With lively, gender-neutral rhyming verses and fun, gender-bending images, author Lesléa Newman and illustrator Maya Gonzalez invite young readers into a space where creativity and acceptance are enjoyed by all, and where each child will be inspired to say, "I can be... me!"

 

Lesléa Newman is the author of more than seventy-five acclaimed books for readers of all ages. She has received numerous awards for her work, including two Stonewall Book Award Honors and a creative writing fellowship from the National Endowment for the Arts. Newman is also a popular presenter at conferences, libraries, and schools. She lives in Holyoke, Massachusetts, with her spouse, Mary Grace Vazquez. Learn about Newman's books for children at lesleakids.com.

 

Maya Christina Gonzalez is a fine artist, an activist, an educator, and the illustrator of many award-winning children's books. Her books have received recognition from the Pura Belpré Award, Notable Books for a Global Society, and more. Gonzalez's books often focus on teaching, inspiring, and empowering children and adults to create personal and cultural change in their lives. She lives with her family in San Francisco, California. You can find her online at mayagonzalez.com.