Reviews

You Are Life by Bao Phi, Hannah Li

rainbowbookworm's review

Go to review page

4.0

Anti-Asian rhetoric spread along with the Covid-19 pandemic and so the author wrote this affirming picture book aimed at Asian kids.

marielle68's review

Go to review page

hopeful inspiring lighthearted reflective

3.25

angiew23's review

Go to review page

5.0

You Are Life is a colourful picture book which celebrates all diversity with a special focus on accepting members of Asian cultures. In an author note at the end of the book there is mention of the anti-Asian hate and prejudice surrounding COVID-19 and while there are children of all diverse backgrounds in the story you can see pictures of items like sushi, Bollywood, K pop, incense, dragons, etc. I like that there is a special interest in celebrating Asian cultures but also love that there are other diverse elements like wheelchairs, protests, refugees and adoption.

Each page has beautiful pictures and short sentences/limited text. Some words are coloured/bolded to stand out, including words in other languages difficult words like refugee or just words that the author wants to stand out, such as “you can do anything”. I think this picture book would fit well in any early years classroom or for children ages 4-9. I think that there are opportunities for all children to see themselves in this story which is very important.

I really appreciate the opportunity from Netgalley and the publisher to read and review an advance copy of this book! I am looking forward to purchasing a copy for my students in the future!

sagadotter's review

Go to review page

4.0

A beautifully written story of how important we all are, written like a love letter to your kid which makes your heart flutter and with the most amazing illustrations.

pib003's review

Go to review page

4.0

This sounds like it would take a lot of background knowledge for a younger child to understand, but I imagine it could be very healing for older children and adult readers

amelias's review

Go to review page

emotional inspiring fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? N/A
  • Strong character development? N/A
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

5.0

odditiex's review against another edition

Go to review page

emotional hopeful inspiring lighthearted reflective slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? N/A
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

3.0

ejivar's review

Go to review page

5.0

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an arc in exchange for an honest review!
A very heartfelt and emotional read. This beautiful poem teaches children that they are understood, loved, appreciated and important coupled with absolutely gorgeous illustrations.

twiinklex's review

Go to review page

3.0

3.5⭐

This is a beautiful book that celebrates diversity, identity and various Asian cultures. It also highlights anti-Asian hate and erasure of that violence that Asian Americans have experienced. I love the illustrations, which are vibrant and full of life. The text is unique and takes time to get used to it, but commendable regardless. An important read for all children!

Thank you to Capstone Editions and Netgalley for an ARC of this book.

remainwonderful's review

Go to review page

5.0

“You are not a burden. In a basket of arms, you are the most precious thing."

That line made me, a fully grown adult, cry. This book is SO WHOLESOME, y'all. I think every kid should have access to books as uplifting and hopeful as this one. It's full of positive affirmations and also highlights diversity in a way that is not just accessible but wholeheartedly celebrated.

In a world where anti-asian hate and racism are everywhere you look, this book is necessary now more than ever.

Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.