Your body is always speaking to you and sending you messages that no one else can hear. You Know Yourself Best is a gentle and inspiring picture book that will help younger readers trust their instincts and learn the language of their bodies.
Author Jess Sanders is a social worker and creator of the Life Lessons for Little Ones series. Each book in the series is an important resource for children, nurturing positive mental health and promoting gender equality.
This latest addition to the series is no different, with Sanders creating an important tool for adults to add to their kit. The book is a great way to step into some trickier conversations.
In You Know Yourself Best, Sanders helps children understand that they are the expert of their body, and gives adults the tools to help support children to trust their instincts. She explores different situations and scenarios, letting children know that there is no right or wrong way to feel. She offers up some common ways of feeling - from smiling and dancing, to a pounding heart and feeling frozen. Importantly, Sanders also offers up some ways to respond to these feelings, giving children some practical ways to help themselves. She does it with compassion and empathy, and readers are gifted with the knowledge that it's okay if you don't know or find it hard to decipher the messages your body is sending you.
The picture book is pitched at children, with Sanders speaking directly to them through the story. Adults who might need some additional guidance are directed to her website, with some examples of questions they could use included there.
Illustrator Fotini Tikkou adds a cute touch to the story, with little moments of whimsy. She brings the characters and the situations they find themselves in to life, with bright colours and lots of expression. There's a lovely aura around the children as they navigate life, to help guide children as they learn about emotions. Tikkou's artwork includes children from a range of backgrounds, which is a lovely, appreciated touch. A bold cover and bright endpages add to the appeal.
You Know Yourself Best is an important book with an important message. Sanders doesn't overwhelm though, with the story serving as a gentle reminder to all of us to trust our instincts and listen to our bodies.
Reviewer: Rebekah Lyell
Affirm Press
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