Juliana Perdomo's “Sometimes, All I Need Is Me” Gets Starred Review In Booklist

Apr. 2022. 32p. Candlewick, $17.99 (9781536218046). PreS–Gr. 2

In this story, an upbeat, brown-skinned girl shares how she sometimes leans on herself to feel, calm, safe, and secure in a world that can be overwhelming or scary. It presents several relatable scenarios in which the girl musters courage or channels her creativity to fend off troubling feelings and boredom. Colombian author-illustrator Perdomo’s heartwarming artwork makes this simple story sing with its childlike style and charm. Her illustrations are filled with bright, bold colors and clean lines that pop against white backgrounds, and many feature vivid floral designs and cheerful patterns tucked into the scenes—from the girl’s flowing cape to her bedroom decor. Through the girl’s example, readers will learn self-reliance skills for soothing themselves when moments become difficult and an appreciation for both having company and being alone. There are several instances when the girl turns to an adult or family member for help or comfort, but the most moving portions of the tale are its moments of empowerment, which contain sentiments like “I can be my own support and stand by myself” and “But when I’m alone, I can be my own company and make my own magic.” The playful artwork keeps the text from ever feeling saccharine, and this winning combination will give children the confidence to tap into the power they hold within themselves. — Rosie Camargo