Amazon Editors' Picks: Best Books Ages 6-8 (2021)
When Ms. Underwood asks if anyone wants to help Kyle, Zahra always volunteers. She loves spending time with Kyle--he's creative and generous, and he makes the funniest jokes at lunch. But when Zahra's other classmates start teasing her for helping him, she starts making choices she regrets.
I Can Help is a gentle, sensitive portrayal of reaching out, facing peer pressure, and learning from past mistakes. With thoughtful storytelling and poignant illustrations, this book will open discussions about choosing kindness in the classroom and beyond.
Arkansas State Library Arkansas Diamond Primary Book Award Nominee (2023-2024)
South Dakota Library Association Prairie Bud Award PreK-1st Nominee (2023-2024)
Eerdmans Books for Young Readers publishes high quality picture books, middle readers, novels, nonfiction, and religious titles for children and young adults.
Great news! I CAN HELP, written by Reem Faruqi and illustrated by Mikela Prevost is on the 2024 Grand Canyon Reader Award Nominee list in the picture book category! 👉 https://t.co/Do7VP4gzwg https://t.co/NhS9AioB38
Publishers Weekly
"Faruqi gives careful attention to all of the emotions Zahra feels, the better for readers to identify them in their own experience. Prevost contributes smudgy, muted tone images of sweet-faced, dot-eyed children of varying skin tones whose expressions are easy to read. Readers may recognize times when they felt as Zahra does--and vow to do better."
Booklist (starred review)
"From the author of Lailah's Lunchbox (2015) and Amira's Picture Day (2021), this perceptive picture book could lead to discussions about handling peer pressure, dealing with ethical predicaments, and learning from one's mistakes."
School Library Journal
"Lessons about kindness, regret, and making amends are all here without being the least bit didactic. An excellent conversation starter for any adults who work with groups of children."
The Horn Book Magazine
"The strength-based representation of a child with a disability is welcome; Kyle is a whole person with some challenges but many gifts."