About This Book:
*Review Contributed By Connie Reid, Staff Reviewer*
Uplift Young Readers
I’m a Little Hero is a board book for babies through preschool children with different people who have made a difference. The illustration style reminds me of the PBS show Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum. The sentences are concise, accompanied by a sweet affirmation for each person featured. The mirror in the back is clear and shiny, helping to emphasize that the affirmations can also apply to the reader.
A small point of inconsistency for me is that the subtitle on the cover says, “Little Heroes of Color,” and the first few pages point out the first black person to accomplish certain things, which meets expectations. Then, as it continues, there are several white people, and while it can be argued that they were fighting for civil rights and good things, it seems to break the pattern of honoring people of color. Or if they are also from a minority, it is not mentioned. The language also points out that people are black or indigenous at first, but then the rest of the book stops mentioning it. The people who are featured and what they stood for are all positive things; it just feels inconsistent to have an emphasis on heroes of color and then stray from that language and concept.
Overall, the illustrations are inviting, and this book seeks to uplift young children to reach their full potential. It shines a light on important figures in history and positive actions in the community, and invites the young reader to see themselves also being able to make a difference.
