cover image Love Is Powerful

Love Is Powerful

Heather Dean Brewer, illus. by LeUyen Pham. Candlewick, $16.99 (32p) ISBN 978-1-5362-0199-4

Inspired by a young friend of the author’s who participated in the January 2017 New York City Women’s March, Brewer presents an endearing portrait of a Black mother and daughter who take part in a citywide protest. Preparing a crayoned sign with “a message for the world,” Mari wonders how the world will hear or see it; her mother reassures her that others will receive the missive “because love is powerful.” Pham’s warm multimedia illustrations feature an inclusive crowd that calls and echoes the titular refrain, and spirals of hearts that radiate outward. Though readers won’t walk away with an understanding of motivations behind the march, this personal tale conveys the importance of showing up and the power of collaborative action. A note from the real-life Mari brings the book to a sincere conclusion. Ages 5–8. [em](Sept.) [/em]