Common Sense Media Review
By Diondra K. Brown
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Poetic declaration to children that their lives matter.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 5+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
ALL BECAUSE YOU MATTER is a poetic tribute to children, specifically those who are marginalized, designed to empower them and affirm that their lives have always mattered. The story follows the early childhood of the main character, a brown-skinned boy. As his parents await his arrival, the concept of "matter" is discussed. The story takes readers on a journey through time and space, from examining our role as people in relation to the larger universe to how our lives are connected to the dreams of our ancestors, and how certain events in life can cause us to question our purpose and self-worth. Inspired by the Black Lives Matter movement, this book opens the door to discussing cultural pride and racial injustice with children.
Is It Any Good?
This rhythmically rich story inspires hope and ignites pride in readers who will end the story knowing that their lives are important. All Because You Matter celebrates difference and motivates readers to think outside of the box, and understand why all children, of all colors, matter. This story seamlessly connects the lived experience of children who feel different, to those who have lost their lives due to racial injustice. It is also passionate tribute to the power of storytelling and familial love and pride. Readers will close the book with the author's words echoing in their minds, "You mattered. They mattered. We matter... and always will."
Bryan Collier's illustration leap off the page and will certainly appeal to adult and children readers alike. This unique style of illustration is a fusion of quilted petals, with hidden imagery, and collage art. The similes used in the book's text compliments the art, and will create imaginative imagery in the reader's mind. This piece promotes powerful messages and images, which will help to inspire dreams of a more accepting world.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the collage art in All Because You Matter. What pictures do you see in the cut out petal shapes that surround the boy and his ancestors?
What do you think about the poetic style of the text? Try writing a poem about why you matter.
Has anyone every treated you differently because of your skin color, race, or religion?
What do your loved ones do to remind you that you matter? How can you spread this message to others?
Book Details
- Author: Tami Charles
- Illustrator: Bryan Collier
- Genre: Picture Book
- Topics: Activism
- Book type: Fiction
- Publisher: Orchard Books
- Publication date: October 6, 2020
- Publisher's recommended age(s): 5 - 8
- Number of pages: 40
- Available on: Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, iBooks, Kindle
- Last updated: June 2, 2022
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.
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