Review: Most Perfect You by Jazmyn Simon, Illustrated by Tamisha Anthony

Publisher: Random House Children's Books
Source: the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Release Date: May 31st, 2022
Buying Links: Amazon* | Apple Books* | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Google Books | Kobo | 
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Blurb from goodreads:

Jazmyn Simon's debut is a moving love letter to children struggling to accept themselves inside and out--exactly as they are. This gorgeous picture book was inspired by a conversation between the author and her daughter.

I was shown all the smiles in the entire world. I looked at all of the many bright smiles until I found my favorite: your smile.

After comparing herself to other little girls, Irie confides in her mama that she feels something is wrong with her, that she's not perfect as she is. And so Irie's mama tells the magical story of how Irie was intentionally and wonderfully made. In fact, Irie is made up of all her mother's favorite things: sparkling eyes, a bright smile, and a kind heart.

Actor and activist Jazmyn Simon's tender picture book emphasizes the unique beauty and strength of all children, encouraging them to love their most perfect selves.

My Thoughts:

The cover of this book is just so adorable, I couldn't resist. The child depicted is just gorgeous. No child, regardless of how they look, should feel bad about their looks. The child in this books has worries about her hair, it's different from that of her friends, and her mother wastes no time in reassuring her.

The book is a message book, and it's heavy on the message. But as I said, no child should feel bad about how they look. If this book will help with that, then I can try to ignore the heavy-handedness. One more caveat; the mother says how she had a conversation with God (presumably the Christian one, though it's not directly addressed). For some readers, that will be a plus while for some it will be a negative, and some won't care.

The artwork is lovely and showcases the text beautifully. The facial expressions are exquisite and the colors are a mix of pastels and jewel tones. Each page evokes emotions and furthers the story.

A good concept, lovely art, and sweet, thoughtful dialogue make for a story that, while not completely engaging, is lovely to look at and one that should spark conversations.