Hello, Beautiful

Todd’s advice-filled lines welcome a growing child, “bright-eyed,/ bold,/ demanding to be heard/ and seen,” in this effusive picture book. “You are everything good/ in this world,” caregivers tell an infant in opening scenes. As the youth matures, upbeat prose turns instructive (“Find your words,/ talk your talk”) and comforting (“When tears come,/ let them flow.... Not every storm/ will end in rainbows,/ and that’s all right”). Echoing text’s steady feel, vibrant, round-edged digital artwork from Wise incorporates botanicals, squiggles, and stars to produce a textured portrait of a child’s emerging ability to feel fully at home in the world. Final sentiments encourage being human (“bright-eyed, bold,/ demanding”) and seeing “the human in everyone,” leading to an affirming close for this strengthening presentation of a life anchored in acceptance. Figures are depicted with varied abilities, body types, and skin tones. Ages 3–7. (Apr.)