I Knew You Could Do It!

PreS-Gr 2--Life is peppered with trials and tribulations both big and small, each of which is an opportunity for growth and celebration upon its completion. On each page of this book, many different children are overcoming challenges, some of which are real, while others are more fantastical. A little girl walking a tightrope with a fawn, a little boy lassoing the moon, and a particularly brave girl staring down a dragon are just a few of the mighty feats accomplished throughout this story. Accompanying these dramatic images is the echoing refrain: "I knew you could do it." No matter how old a person is, having the support and encouragement of a loved one is critical to a thriving life. Fans of the many other titles by Tillman, including On the Night You Were Born, will love this companion book that moves from the celebration of life to the enthusiasm over accomplishments made during that life. The text is short and sweet, written in rhyming couplets with an enjoyable rhythm, and including beautifully descriptive vocabulary. Richly colored, dreamlike illustrations place real pictures of children against the backdrop of a fantasy world. Reading this story aloud is a wonderful opportunity to shower children with support and affirmation. VERDICT An excellent read-aloud for parents and caregivers to share one-on-one with their children.--Mary Lanni, formerly at Denver Public Library