Amanda Gorman is brilliant and extremely gifted as a poet. Loren Long’s illustrations are beautifully rendered and very purposeful in their detail as he brings to life her stirring words. I hadn’t known she had written this children’s book but when I saw she had, I immediately knew it was a treasure. Now that I received my copy and took the time to read and carefully look at the illustrations, I’m even happier with my purchase. I have already bought a couple copies and had them sent to friends. What a moving story! Incredibly inspiring. I love that the main character is a female black girl and she joins a Jewish boy (one can see the yarmulke) and together they clean up their hometown, picking up empty discarded bottles in the park. The reader sees them do good deeds. They provide food for a hungry child and for an elderly housebound woman. They sing for the woman. And they show tolerance for a boy who plugs his ears at their music; they offer him a smaller instrument (perhaps it won’t sound as loud to him?) She also offers a bone to a muscular dog (a pitbull perhaps?) as the narrative describes “courage” to act with tolerance. Later, we see various instruments offered to each child to create an ever-growing “band” of children who answer the call of “change” and create music together. It is a beautiful book and I’ve proudly displayed it on my coffee table. I am delighted by how it empowers children (and adult children too) by demonstrating that change begins inside of a single person. And that attitude can be contagious and impact our environment and communities in a very positive way. Amanda writes”I am just what the world needs, referring to how children might view themselves and the difference they can make. I think that this is the book the world needs and has always needed.

Nicely done! It is on the living room coffee table.

All children and the people who love and care for them will enjoy this book. The words and illustrations are beautiful. This is a wonderful book to read to young children at home or school.

If you like to discuss poetry and how it rhymes, you will love this book! Ms. Gorman, as always, gives us authentic word choice and change ups in rhythm and rhyme to deliver her thoughtful, heartfelt message. Gentle, inviting illustrations by Loren Long bolster the philosophical messages. The music motif adds another layer of meaning to the message of change (music travels and changes/"playing changes") and the delight in not only embracing change but creativity and action as part of change. Also, as in a musical situation, each person is unique and important, but the music is made as a group. This is a treasure of a book, to be savored and read aloud! For all ages, truly.

Amanda Gorman is a fabulous contemporary African American poet, (who recited her poem at Biden’s inauguration ). This is a wonderfully written poem / song for children to teach them about inclusiveness. Not just for African Americans, this book touches on how all children can make a change in the world, whatever ethnic or cultural backgrounds they are from, whether they have disabilities, or are dealing with prejudice. It is a simple book with lovely illustrations. A great gift for any child.

Awesome introduction to an inspiring national poet!

my granddaughter loves this book. The color was great. The book on the outside is gray. It holds up very well very durable. The read is easy and you would enjoy reading it to your kids very age appropriate

Absolutely love this book. When I read it I can just hear Amanda Gorman's passion & strong presence in the words. My son is 2 years old, so it will likely be a little advanced for him (says age range is 4 to 8 years), but I can't wait to read it to him. I know he will absolutely love the artwork. Highly recommend. Planning to get another copy for my almost 5 year old niece for her birthday or Christmas too.

Muy buena calidad (tapa dura). Preciosas imágenes. Texto fácil de entender por niños, con una idea clara de tolerancia y ayuda al otro. Lo compré de oferta y no me arrepiento.

Dieses Gedicht schließt nahtlos an ihr Gedicht "The Hill we climb" an. Es ist ermutigend und voller Inspiration und Hoffnung! Es ist gleichermaßen zart und kraftvoll, wie ein Lied, das einen immer wieder motiviert und aufstehen läßt. Dieses Buch ist ein wunderschönes Kinderbuch, aber genauso gut auch ein Erwachsenenbuch.

So many themes to unpick in this stunningly illustrated book. For children and adults of all ages.

Chegou em perfeito estado, no tempo previsto.

good illustrations nice prose. She is gifted.