By Elizabeth Everett
Illustrated by Shelley Hanmo
Soaring Kite Books, 2025
24 pages
978-1-958372-72-2
Ages 3-6
In a cheery yet matter-of-fact narrative, a child recites a host of things they can do by themself. For each, they also note a related activity with which they require help. “I can put on my shoes, but I need a little help to tie the laces. … I can decorate a kite, but I need a little help to fly it in the wind.” The tone makes clear that needing help is nothing out of the ordinary; the expressly stated message at story’s end is that needing help is perfectly okay. This intention is balanced with a marvelously child-centered text, each opening activity recognizable as a potential point of “I can do it myself” pride for young children. Buoyant, colorful collage artwork shows the multiracial, brown-skinned, short-haired child with their helpful grownups, a dad who appears Black and a mom who appears Asian. ©2025 Cooperative Children’s Book Center