All Because You Matter
#1 in All Because You Matter Series
What’s inside...
Instant New York Times bestseller! A lyrical, heart-lifting love letter to Black and brown children everywhere: reminding them how much they matter, that they have always mattered, and they always will, from powerhouse rising star author Tami Charles and esteemed, award-winning illustrator Bryan Collier. The #1 Amazon Best Children's Book of 2020 A Chicago Public Library and New York Public Library's Best Books of 2020 A TODAY's Favorite Children's Books of 2020 A Shelf Awareness's Best Children's and Teen Books of 2020 A Best Books of 2020, School Library Journal A Best Picture Books of 2020, Chicago Public Library A NPR's Best Books of 2020 A Best Picture Books of 2020, Barnes and Noble A Kirkus Reviews' Best Books of 2020 * 'A gem for every household.' -- Kirkus Reviews, starred review * 'Stunning. Powerful. Timely. Illustrated inspiration at its best.' -- Horn Book, starred review Discover this poignant, timely, and emotionally stirring picture book, an ode to Black and brown children everywhere that is full of hope, assurance, and love. Tami Charles pens a poetic, lyrical text that is part love letter, part anthem, assuring readers that they always have, and always will, matter. This powerful, rhythmic lullaby reassures readers that their matter and their worth is never diminished, no matter the circumstance: through the joy and wonder of their first steps and first laughs, through the hardship of adolescent struggles, and the pain and heartbreak of current events, they always have, and always will, matter. Accompanied by illustrations by renowned artist Bryan Collier, a four-time Caldecott Honor recipient and a nine-time Coretta Scott King Award winner or honoree, All Because You Matter empowers readers with pride, joy, and comfort, reminding them of their roots and strengthening them for the days to come. Lyrical, personal, and full of love, All Because You Matter is for the picture book audience what The Hate U Give was for YA and Ghost Boys was for middle grade: a conversation starter, a community touchstone, and a deep affirmation of worth for the young readers who need it most.
Discussion points
How did the illustrations make you feel when you saw the characters experiencing different emotions?
Why do you think it's important that everyone feels like they matter?
Can you share a time when you felt very special and valued?
What are some ways we can show others that they matter to us?
How can understanding our own value help us in our everyday lives?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing a personal story where you felt that you mattered to someone else.
Encourage your child to draw a picture of a scene from the book and describe why they chose that moment to illustrate.
Use empathetic listening to validate your child’s feelings and thoughts as they express them during the discussion.
Link discussions to real-world events or situations to help your child connect the book's messages to their own experiences.
Provide reassurance and support throughout the conversation, reinforcing the idea that your child’s thoughts and feelings are important.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Affirmation of self-worth
Explanation: The narrative reinforces the idea that every child is valuable and important. This message is delivered through the loving words of the parents to their child, emphasizing their significance in the world.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by embracing their unique qualities and feeling confident in their value, leading to a positive self-image.
Example Lesson: Recognition of historical and cultural contributions
Explanation: The book weaves in references to historical and cultural figures and movements, connecting the child’s existence to the broader tapestry of history.
Real-World Application: This helps children appreciate the impact their own cultural background has had on the world and fosters a sense of pride in their heritage.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The story acknowledges challenges and struggles that children might face, especially those related to racial injustice, but it reaffirms the child’s worth amidst these difficulties.
Real-World Application: Children learn to maintain their self-worth and resilience when confronting challenges in their lives, understanding that obstacles do not define their value.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: By acknowledging the collective struggles and achievements of different groups, the book fosters a sense of empathy and collective consciousness.
Real-World Application: It encourages children to be empathetic towards others' experiences and to understand the importance of community and support.