The Horn Book Guide

PICTURE BOOKS

Verde, Susan

I Am Human: A Book of Empathy

32 pp. | Abrams | October, 2018 | Trade ISBN 978-1-4197-3165-5 $14.99

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds. A boy describes his personal characteristics, such as having "a playful side" and "endless curiosity," and also enumerates the broader qualities of being human, including making mistakes and making amends. Reynolds's recognizable expressive vignettes extend the mindfulness-themed text; an author's note describes the benefits of empathy, love, and compassion, and gives instructions for a loving-kindness meditation.

Reviewer: Bridget McCaffrey