Me and the Family Tree

Starred review from September 1, 2022
Preschool *Starred Review* "When I look in the mirror, I can see my family tree . . . " begins the touching final line, cementing the book's concept of shared physical features, the foundation of what turns out to be a beautiful depiction of family. Over nine double-page spreads, a little Black girl observes traits she has in common with family members. Weatherford's delicately poetic text ensures a steady rhythm, with capping rhymes on every other spread, and Corrin's evocative art adds an incredible amount of depth and heart. Each physical comparison is illustrated by an expressive moment shared between the girl and a family member, conjuring feelings of playful affection, wry humor, and vibrant love. A range of hairstyles and brown skin tones makes for a warmly inclusive depiction in a a pitch-perfect ode to shared ancestry and the bonds of family.

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December 1, 2022

PreS-K-In rhyme, a young Black girl celebrates the parts of herself that resemble other family members. She has her uncle's chin, a grandma's cheeks, and so on. At the end, she compares herself to a "little sprig" that will one day be the personification of her family tree. Weatherford's poetry celebrates Black features and encourages all children to look at themselves and their relatives in a new way. The poem has a clear rhyme scheme but allows for a freestyle rhythm. Corrin's artwork depicts the characters in sunny, colorful, outdoor environments. The girl is shown with each relative as they compare. Some are identical, some are less than similar. VERDICT A sweet addition to the board book and intergenerational shelves.-Chance Lee Joyner

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