This book will lift you up in its arms and make you believe that “Love is Powerful”!
It’s the right choice to help us understand what a group of people can accomplish if they are united in their purpose and moving toward treating all people with love and kindness.
Written by Heather Dean Brewer from Michigan and illustrated by LeUyen Pham from California, both of whom marched in the 2017 Women’s Marches, this book is inspired by Mari, a real little girl who traveled with her mother from Harlem to Midtown New York to march with large crowds of people who were protesting inhumane actions and policies of a president who reviled many people.
This book is filled with words and illustrations that will have you understanding that “Love is Powerful!”
When Mari worries that no one will see her signs, Mama reassures her. “Mama hugged her close. ‘They’ll see,” she said, “because love is powerful.”
As the crowd around them swells and the people begin to chant the words on Mari’s sign, I suspect you will have goosebumps and tears in your eyes, just as I did. It is a powerful book.
LeUyen Pham’s artwork illustrates the text so well that when the hearts present on every page begin to swirl as the story reaches a crescendo, you will swear that you see the hearts rising off the page.
People of all ages, all races, all genders, and all abilities are present in the illustrations. Your young people will want to read the signs the protesters are carrying.
A number of years ago, I asked what had ever happened to the protest movement of the ‘60s. Why did we no longer see crowds of people uniting to express their beliefs and their demands for justice? This book is a good choice to read out loud, begin a discussion, and help children understand why making sure their voices are heard is essential to our country’s good health.
A photo of the real Mari at the protest, along with a note from her, are the back matter in this book. They’re a wonderful conclusion that you’ll want to share with your young listeners.
Highly recommended.
Love is Powerful
written by Heather Dean Brewer
illustrated by LeUyen Pham
Candlewick Press, 2020