Review by Booklist Review
This warm, welcoming picture book opens the door to discussions about how to be a good neighbor and build a compassionate community. The words "I'm Here" colorfully cover the endpapers and are written in several languages, including English, Arabic, and Somali. In a child-friendly manner, reasons for human migration are briefly explained. The succinct text, cowritten by the founder of Miry's List (a nonprofit organization assisting refugee families), emphasizes, with empathy, commonalities: "No matter what language they speak, people everywhere want to feel safe and loved and important." The conversation continues with actionable suggestions to help new arrival families feel at home, like sharing a friendly smile, cooking a new food, or just saying "I'm here." Perez's winsome digital cartoons highlight personal connection in scenes of cooperative play and joyful embraces. Accepted and received into their new neighborhood, adults and children of many different cultures, religions, and abilities gaze directly at the reader, waving and holding up welcome signs of their own. A good choice to inspire acts of kindness and galvanize positive change.
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
Review by School Library Journal Review
PreS-Gr 2--A timely exploration of migration and refugees for young readers. Whitehill conveys why people may need to leave their countries, and that sometimes they leave parts of themselves behind as well. Providing them with a welcome on the other side of their journey is also part of the message. This book is a valuable tool for facilitating conversations about the topic. The illustrations resemble textured crayon drawings which promote a childlike tone further making the situations outlined in the book accessible, even relatable, to the picture book audience. The people are of varied skin tones and ages. Their respective languages are highlighted with colorful text acting as a celebration of cultures and an early introduction to world languages. VERDICT An essential purchase for libraries to help teach empathy and understanding about refugees and migration.--Myiesha Speight
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