Me!

This is a gem of a little book which we found at our hometown bookstore. Once I saw the illustrations and read the captivating text, I bought as many as I could find to give to all of the children in our family. Bear begins the book by telling the reader all of the things which he feels make him unique: he has a big heart, he's clever, he feels at home anywhere in the world, etc. (My 8-year-old's favorite part is the illustration of bear going off a super high dive as he tells the reader, "fearlessly I face life's challenges!") Bear's most important bit of wisdom is probably "I like myself", an idea which suggests strong self-esteem and sets a great example. He does admit, though, that at times he feels small and then searches out a special friend, saying "I'm glad you're here". This book celebrates the uniqueness of each individual on our planet, as well as the necessity of being connected to others in order to have that gift appreciated.