Author: Miranda Paul

Illustrator: Ebony Glenn

Publisher: Clarion Books

This book masterfully finds the right words—both kind and firm—to speak up against injustices, all delivered in succinct yet powerful rhymes. It addresses a wide range of important topics, including how to handle: 

• Mispronouncing your name

• Others spreading lies

• Unfair rules

• Bullying

• Apologizing

• Expressing gratitude

• Sharing feelings

• Sharing when hurt or in danger

Each scenario is paired with clear, engaging imagery and actionable examples that make these messages both accessible and impactful. Families and teachers: repeat these mantras daily and place these words around the house/school! 

What I particularly appreciate is the language used to describe communicating these messages: using a quiet voice or non-spoken method such as body language and facial expressions. It shows that even the softest words or quiet gestures can make a loud impact.

Extend the Learning:

Before reading the page, ask your child to infer the problem based on the clues in the picture. Relate it to their own life and ask if they’ve ever seen this at school or in the community. Then encourage your child to consider how the actions in the scene would make someone feel. Brainstorm your own way to “speak up” and then read the story to compare their own example!

It is so crucial to practice these self-advocacy skills in a playful and safe environment so that when the time comes, your child can feel confident on how to take action. Throughout play time, introduce scenarios where a character does something wrong and encourage your child’s character to speak up. And give your child a plentitude of language models – which means finding ways to self advocate in your own daily life! Speak up when you notice wrongdoings in your community, and talk through these scenarios after the fact and invite a discussion on what your child may have noticed, and make an action plan together. Observe the little moments with your child and validate them in times of thoughtfulness and kindness.