I Can Be... Me!

XX min read

Author(s)	Leslea Newman
Illustrator(s)	Maya Christina Gonzalez
Age Group	5-7
Publisher	Lee & Low Books
ISBN	978-1643792057
Year	2023

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, the book invites 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!

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