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You Are Life
Every child is full to bursting with amazing things! This joyful poem celebrates the wonderful and complex identity of children of immigrants and refugees, embracing all that they are—a dancer, a shining light, a K-pop song—and promising what they will never be: invisible. Award-winning picture book author and poet Bao Phi and illustrator Hannah Li remind young readers through lyrical text and fantastical illustrations that who they are and what they love will always be enough.
Bao Phi is an award-winning poet and children’s book author. His stunning debut picture book with illustrator Thi Bui, A Different Pond, won a Caldecott Honor, a Charlotte Zolotow Award, an Asian/Pacific American Award for Literature, an Ezra Jack Keats Honor, a Boston Globe-Horn Book Honor, and numerous other awards and accolades. You Are Life is his fourth picture book. Bao is a single co-parent father, an arts administrator, and a book nerd.
Hannah Li is a New York-based illustrator from China. She graduated from Savannah College of Art and Design and provides illustrations for newspapers and magazines such as the New York Times, Washington Post, and Harper's Bazaar. She illustrates for publishers such as Penguin Random House and Macmillan. Hannah’s work has been recognized by the Red Dot Award, Communication Arts, American Illustration, Society of Illustrators, 3x3, and many more.
Bao Phi is an award-winning poet and children’s book author. His stunning debut picture book with illustrator Thi Bui, A Different Pond, won a Caldecott Honor, a Charlotte Zolotow Award, an Asian/Pacific American Award for Literature, an Ezra Jack Keats Honor, a Boston Globe-Horn Book Honor, and numerous other awards and accolades. You Are Life is his fourth picture book. Bao is a single co-parent father, an arts administrator, and a book nerd.
Hannah Li is a New York-based illustrator from China. She graduated from Savannah College of Art and Design and provides illustrations for newspapers and magazines such as the New York Times, Washington Post, and Harper's Bazaar. She illustrates for publishers such as Penguin Random House and Macmillan. Hannah’s work has been recognized by the Red Dot Award, Communication Arts, American Illustration, Society of Illustrators, 3x3, and many more.
34 pages, Hardcover
Published September 1, 2022
2 people are currently reading
1815 people want to read
About the author
Bao Phi
15 books100 followersBao Phi is a Vietnamese-American spoken word artist,[1][2] writer and community activist living in Minnesota. Bao Phi's collection of poems, Sông I Sing, was published in 2011[3] and, Thousand Star Hotel, was published in 2017[4] by Coffee House Press. He has written three children’s books published by Capstone Press. First book, A Different Pond received multiple awards, including the Caldecott Award,[5] Charlotte Zolotow Award,[6] the Asian/Pacific American Awards for Literature for best picture book, the Minnesota Book Award for picture books.[7]
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
July 18, 2022
I must say this book is such a moving inspiration for our children to live in a harmony and love each other no matter where they are from. The author finds that we have to celebrate our differences and poems are a good effort and fun to show our children what world we are living.
I love the poems. Brief and clear. The illustrations also show children of different races and abilities. It is inspiring. I give 5 ⭐️. Thanks to @netgalley and the publisher for providing an earc. Watch out for the pub day on this September 1st.
I love the poems. Brief and clear. The illustrations also show children of different races and abilities. It is inspiring. I give 5 ⭐️. Thanks to @netgalley and the publisher for providing an earc. Watch out for the pub day on this September 1st.
August 21, 2022
3.5⭐
This is a beautiful book that celebrates diversity, identity and various Asian cultures. It also highlights anti-Asian hate and erasure of that violence that Asian Americans have experienced. I love the illustrations, which are vibrant and full of life. The text is unique and takes time to get used to it, but commendable regardless. An important read for all children!
Thank you to Capstone Editions and Netgalley for an ARC of this book.
This is a beautiful book that celebrates diversity, identity and various Asian cultures. It also highlights anti-Asian hate and erasure of that violence that Asian Americans have experienced. I love the illustrations, which are vibrant and full of life. The text is unique and takes time to get used to it, but commendable regardless. An important read for all children!
Thank you to Capstone Editions and Netgalley for an ARC of this book.
March 23, 2022
**I received this book as an e-arc from NetGalley in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.**
I just read this book, and then read it again outloud. The artwork is honestly gorgeous, and far more complex than what I had been expecting from the cover. And I was very pleasantly surprised that it was in poetry form, and it was really beautiful, especially when I read it out loud. I loved the way the art and words came together, both showing different aspects of different cultures, and they were all beautiful. I think this is a gorgeous book, with a really good message for both immigrant and non-immigrant children - and everyone else. The poem is so lovely and impactful.
Honestly, my only complaint is that the cover is a bit plain compared to the inside, and I think it could get more attention if the art was more intricate and covered more of the space, and not with a yellow background - maybe blue or green would work. A night scene or an ocean scene with the dragon and fish silhouettes.
But anyway, I really loved this book and was very pleasantly surprised by all of it. i would definitely recommend this to children and adults alike.
I just read this book, and then read it again outloud. The artwork is honestly gorgeous, and far more complex than what I had been expecting from the cover. And I was very pleasantly surprised that it was in poetry form, and it was really beautiful, especially when I read it out loud. I loved the way the art and words came together, both showing different aspects of different cultures, and they were all beautiful. I think this is a gorgeous book, with a really good message for both immigrant and non-immigrant children - and everyone else. The poem is so lovely and impactful.
Honestly, my only complaint is that the cover is a bit plain compared to the inside, and I think it could get more attention if the art was more intricate and covered more of the space, and not with a yellow background - maybe blue or green would work. A night scene or an ocean scene with the dragon and fish silhouettes.
But anyway, I really loved this book and was very pleasantly surprised by all of it. i would definitely recommend this to children and adults alike.
July 20, 2025
I am reading and reviewing this book after being gifted it as an eARC through NetGalley. My opinions and thoughts are honest and my own.
All children should feel celebrated in all aspects of their identity.
This illustrated poem applauds the complex identities of children of immigrants and refugees. This book, written in response to the rise of hate crimes against Asian people that came with the COVID-19 pandemic, is a reminder to Asian children that there is hope. They “are life.”
Personally, I have to read any picture book that includes an illustrated turtle. The colorful and vibrant vibe of the art matches the hopefulness of the poem. I’m impressed with how the author, while sparking positive feelings about life, tackles some difficult themes, especially for children. Racism is a crucial topic to speak about with all age groups, and I think this book could be an important addition to the conversation.
“You are not a virus. You are a seed.”
This is another book that I think could benefit both children and adult readers. I will be picking up the other children’s picture books written by the poet, Bao Phi. I’ll also be looking into the illustrator, Hannah Li’s, other work.
And for everyone who needs to hear this: “You are not a burden.”
All children should feel celebrated in all aspects of their identity.
This illustrated poem applauds the complex identities of children of immigrants and refugees. This book, written in response to the rise of hate crimes against Asian people that came with the COVID-19 pandemic, is a reminder to Asian children that there is hope. They “are life.”
Personally, I have to read any picture book that includes an illustrated turtle. The colorful and vibrant vibe of the art matches the hopefulness of the poem. I’m impressed with how the author, while sparking positive feelings about life, tackles some difficult themes, especially for children. Racism is a crucial topic to speak about with all age groups, and I think this book could be an important addition to the conversation.
“You are not a virus. You are a seed.”
This is another book that I think could benefit both children and adult readers. I will be picking up the other children’s picture books written by the poet, Bao Phi. I’ll also be looking into the illustrator, Hannah Li’s, other work.
And for everyone who needs to hear this: “You are not a burden.”
March 26, 2022
This picture book is brimming with life, from colorful illustrations to heartfelt affirmations for those of us in Asian communities.
The arrival of “You Are Life” comes in the midst of the COVID pandemic, a devastating global event that has also brought anti-Asian violence onto a national stage in the United States. According to a recent report released by Stop AAPI Hate, there have been nearly 11,000 self-reported hate incidents against the Asian American Pacific Islander community since March 2020. It’s devastating to hear that AAPI communities across the country have experienced enormous amounts of pain and suffering. This is why creative work that uplifts AAPI communities and is made by members within our communities is so essential now more than ever.
According to the author’s note, Bao Phi was inspired by the desire to have a glimmer of hope during this time of struggle. He says that we must mark this time, but also, celebrate our lives. “You Are Life” does exactly that by combatting negative anti-Asian sentiment by highlighting our lives through a multifaceted lens that goes beyond the boxes we are squeezed into. It’s a love poem to Asian Americans, and it’s a book every child should read because no matter your background, we all deserve love.
The arrival of “You Are Life” comes in the midst of the COVID pandemic, a devastating global event that has also brought anti-Asian violence onto a national stage in the United States. According to a recent report released by Stop AAPI Hate, there have been nearly 11,000 self-reported hate incidents against the Asian American Pacific Islander community since March 2020. It’s devastating to hear that AAPI communities across the country have experienced enormous amounts of pain and suffering. This is why creative work that uplifts AAPI communities and is made by members within our communities is so essential now more than ever.
According to the author’s note, Bao Phi was inspired by the desire to have a glimmer of hope during this time of struggle. He says that we must mark this time, but also, celebrate our lives. “You Are Life” does exactly that by combatting negative anti-Asian sentiment by highlighting our lives through a multifaceted lens that goes beyond the boxes we are squeezed into. It’s a love poem to Asian Americans, and it’s a book every child should read because no matter your background, we all deserve love.
August 26, 2022
This is a beautiful poem written in response to the anti-Asian violence that has always existed and that has been flaring up especially fiercely lately. It's a lovely affirmation to children, especially those who are immigrants and refugees, that they were the cherished, precious dreams of their ancestors and valuable, wonderful people in their own right. The art is absolutely stunning, full of color and detail and energy. Lots of different people and families are featured, so many readers can see themselves on the page.
Where this might get a bit tricky is finding the appropriate audience. The text is highly metaphorical, full of nuance and abstract ideas. While this looks like a picture book for small children, a 4 year old may appreciate the tone and rhythm of the words but won't "get" much of what's being said. Middle grades kids who can begin to grasp the concepts may overlook this thinking it's for little kids. An adult reading partner may need to encourage older readers to pick this up, but it's well worth a read!
Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review!
Where this might get a bit tricky is finding the appropriate audience. The text is highly metaphorical, full of nuance and abstract ideas. While this looks like a picture book for small children, a 4 year old may appreciate the tone and rhythm of the words but won't "get" much of what's being said. Middle grades kids who can begin to grasp the concepts may overlook this thinking it's for little kids. An adult reading partner may need to encourage older readers to pick this up, but it's well worth a read!
Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review!
March 23, 2022
You Are Life is a diverse, affirming picture book filled with colorful illustrations and lots of fun texts. I plan to reread this with my daughter, and I know she'll love the references to cats and dancing. I found myself tearing up a little at some of the affirmations: that children aren't viruses, or burdens, or invaders, but rather beautiful, wondrous with the potential to do anything.
There is also an author's note at the back of the book about the spike of anti-Asian violence, and a special message to Asian-American children. I'm an Asian-American mom raising an Asian-American child, and I can't tell you how much I appreciate this book.
This book is set to come out August 2022, and I will definitely be pre-ordering a book for my family.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC.
There is also an author's note at the back of the book about the spike of anti-Asian violence, and a special message to Asian-American children. I'm an Asian-American mom raising an Asian-American child, and I can't tell you how much I appreciate this book.
This book is set to come out August 2022, and I will definitely be pre-ordering a book for my family.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC.
March 13, 2022
You Are Life is a colourful picture book which celebrates all diversity with a special focus on accepting members of Asian cultures. In an author note at the end of the book there is mention of the anti-Asian hate and prejudice surrounding COVID-19 and while there are children of all diverse backgrounds in the story you can see pictures of items like sushi, Bollywood, K pop, incense, dragons, etc. I like that there is a special interest in celebrating Asian cultures but also love that there are other diverse elements like wheelchairs, protests, refugees and adoption.
Each page has beautiful pictures and short sentences/limited text. Some words are coloured/bolded to stand out, including words in other languages difficult words like refugee or just words that the author wants to stand out, such as “you can do anything”. I think this picture book would fit well in any early years classroom or for children ages 4-9. I think that there are opportunities for all children to see themselves in this story which is very important.
I really appreciate the opportunity from Netgalley and the publisher to read and review an advance copy of this book! I am looking forward to purchasing a copy for my students in the future!
Each page has beautiful pictures and short sentences/limited text. Some words are coloured/bolded to stand out, including words in other languages difficult words like refugee or just words that the author wants to stand out, such as “you can do anything”. I think this picture book would fit well in any early years classroom or for children ages 4-9. I think that there are opportunities for all children to see themselves in this story which is very important.
I really appreciate the opportunity from Netgalley and the publisher to read and review an advance copy of this book! I am looking forward to purchasing a copy for my students in the future!
June 1, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an arc in exchange for an honest review!
A very heartfelt and emotional read. This beautiful poem teaches children that they are understood, loved, appreciated and important coupled with absolutely gorgeous illustrations.
A very heartfelt and emotional read. This beautiful poem teaches children that they are understood, loved, appreciated and important coupled with absolutely gorgeous illustrations.
May 18, 2022
Written in response to the recent wave of violence being carried out against Asian Americans, this colorfully illustrated children's poem addresses the children of Asian immigrants and refugees. The book is bright and cheerful and pre-school children will enjoy hearing about all the things they are, but the book is very specifically for first or second-gen children and includes lines like, "You are not a virus... You are not forever foreign./You are immigrant...Refugee, you fled a war..."
The author writes in his notes, "To those who are not Asian-American : thank you for taking the time to read and learn about an experience outside your own. To Asian-Americans: you are not alone, and you are loved." Because the words so specifically address the reader, though, I would need to explain to white children that the author is especially addressing children whose families are from Asia, something I don't feel I often have to do when I read inclusive books with children of color as the main characters. This book would make it worth it, but it's unusual and worth noting.
With that said, there is plenty of activity that all children will relate to: dancing, parading, making blanket forts, loving our families. I recommend this lovely poem for everyone.
The author writes in his notes, "To those who are not Asian-American : thank you for taking the time to read and learn about an experience outside your own. To Asian-Americans: you are not alone, and you are loved." Because the words so specifically address the reader, though, I would need to explain to white children that the author is especially addressing children whose families are from Asia, something I don't feel I often have to do when I read inclusive books with children of color as the main characters. This book would make it worth it, but it's unusual and worth noting.
With that said, there is plenty of activity that all children will relate to: dancing, parading, making blanket forts, loving our families. I recommend this lovely poem for everyone.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 27, 2022
While I know I wasn’t the target audience for this book, I couldn’t help but love it from the bottom of my heart. This is a wholesome and diverse own-voices poem-turned-story by Bao Phi. The story is full of heart-wrenching lines, and affirms that children are beautiful, precious gifts - not invaders, burdens or viruses! I love that the entire Asian diaspora are included, not just East Asians. The visual diversity was amazing, from the Bollywood scene, and burning incense, to people protesting in the street! Black and Brown bodies were aplenty, as well! The illustrations by Hannah Li are breathtaking and really tie the story together.
The author’s note is also worth mentioning, as it mentions the increase in Anti-Asian violence due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This is an important book for Asian-American children, and we need to remember that the Asian experience isn’t restricted to small checkboxes. The Asian experience contains multitudes.
Thanks to Capstone and NetGalley for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review!
The author’s note is also worth mentioning, as it mentions the increase in Anti-Asian violence due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This is an important book for Asian-American children, and we need to remember that the Asian experience isn’t restricted to small checkboxes. The Asian experience contains multitudes.
Thanks to Capstone and NetGalley for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review!
April 14, 2022
A beautiful homage to Asians and immigrants, You Are Life is equal parts a love letter to a spectacular array of cultures as well as a poem about family and individual identity.
Written in response to the anti-Asian sentiments that plagued the world after the outbreak of the Covid-19 virus, author Bao Phi sends an important message to Asian children reminding them of their inner and outer beauty, their uniqueness, and that they are not to blame for the way of the world.
Older children will understand the lyrical prose and some of the more abstract cultural references, but younger children will adore the vivid and captivating illustrations, as well as internalize the message as they see or experience racism and hate in the world around them.
Truly, this is a story every child should hear. Each child is a unique individual that brings something amazing to the world. A reminder that no child is a burden, that they are deeply loved and deserve to shine, this book is stunning.
Written in response to the anti-Asian sentiments that plagued the world after the outbreak of the Covid-19 virus, author Bao Phi sends an important message to Asian children reminding them of their inner and outer beauty, their uniqueness, and that they are not to blame for the way of the world.
Older children will understand the lyrical prose and some of the more abstract cultural references, but younger children will adore the vivid and captivating illustrations, as well as internalize the message as they see or experience racism and hate in the world around them.
Truly, this is a story every child should hear. Each child is a unique individual that brings something amazing to the world. A reminder that no child is a burden, that they are deeply loved and deserve to shine, this book is stunning.
February 17, 2023
This book is the author's poem to Asian American children stressing that who you are and what you love will always be enough. But the book also stresses that hateful words and labels harm people. Refugees and immigrants should not be referred to as a burden nor as invaders. History clearly shows us that those thoughts are not helpful. My favorite encouraging quote is "You are a Dance Dance Revolution in a field of rice."
Everyone can learn from reading this book.
After years of coordinating story times, I have a tendency to group books together in my head. Another new book, Beauty Woke by NoNieqa Ramos, would pair nicely with this one to discuss prejudice, bias, hatred, and acceptance. And that words and actions matter.
Everyone can learn from reading this book.
After years of coordinating story times, I have a tendency to group books together in my head. Another new book, Beauty Woke by NoNieqa Ramos, would pair nicely with this one to discuss prejudice, bias, hatred, and acceptance. And that words and actions matter.
February 28, 2022
This was a sweet book that my son and I enjoyed reading together. I feel like while my son and I may not have been the specific targeted audience, it was still a lovely tale. Some of the wording came across a little jarring, like it wasn't quite translated right, but it was easy enough to ignore since you could still understand the flow of the story. The illustrations and message of the book are lovely, my favourite line is "You are not a burden. In a basket of arms, you are the most precious thing". All in all a sweet read for little kids. 3 1/2 stars rounded up to 4 stars. I received a digital copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 31, 2022
I found this children's book very interesting. The author wrote the book to help asian american children feel more included in society, and to help give them confidence. The book has a great message to all asian american people, or anyone who is feeling hurt from racism. The message tells asian american children that they are amazing and awesome, and that they can achieve their dreams. It is all very inspiring and heartwarming. The images in the book are fantastic, and they display diversity in all ways. Great book!
Many thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Many thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 5, 2022
“You are not a burden. In a basket of arms, you are the most precious thing."
That line made me, a fully grown adult, cry. This book is SO WHOLESOME, y'all. I think every kid should have access to books as uplifting and hopeful as this one. It's full of positive affirmations and also highlights diversity in a way that is not just accessible but wholeheartedly celebrated.
In a world where anti-asian hate and racism are everywhere you look, this book is necessary now more than ever.
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
That line made me, a fully grown adult, cry. This book is SO WHOLESOME, y'all. I think every kid should have access to books as uplifting and hopeful as this one. It's full of positive affirmations and also highlights diversity in a way that is not just accessible but wholeheartedly celebrated.
In a world where anti-asian hate and racism are everywhere you look, this book is necessary now more than ever.
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 8, 2022
This is a beautiful book written as a poem and love letter to immigrant children. The stunning lyrical prose pulled at my heartstrings. My 4 year olds really enjoyed the gorgeous diverse bright illustrations celebrating different cultures.
This was a heartwarming book stressing to immigrant children that they are valuable. At the end, the author describes how he wrote this book during the rise in anti-Asian racism and hate crimes over the last few years. He says that he wants to celebrate the lives of Asian American children with this book and let them know they are loved.
Thank you to NetGalley and Capstone Publishing for this digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was a heartwarming book stressing to immigrant children that they are valuable. At the end, the author describes how he wrote this book during the rise in anti-Asian racism and hate crimes over the last few years. He says that he wants to celebrate the lives of Asian American children with this book and let them know they are loved.
Thank you to NetGalley and Capstone Publishing for this digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 29, 2022
Until the pandemic I had no idea that hatred against Asians still existed. More the fool me.
This visual poem reassures that Love will always be enough, they should never be invisible, and to celebrate life and heritage.
Illustrator Hannah Li fills the pages with simple artistry which adds to the impact of this wonderful poem. All libraries need this book so we can all remember this message of no difference among ALL children: Asian, visible/ invisible disabilities, immigrants, adopted, mixed race, refugees.
I requested and received a free temporary e-book on Adobe Digital Editions from Capstone/Capstone Editions via NetGalley. Thank you!
This visual poem reassures that Love will always be enough, they should never be invisible, and to celebrate life and heritage.
Illustrator Hannah Li fills the pages with simple artistry which adds to the impact of this wonderful poem. All libraries need this book so we can all remember this message of no difference among ALL children: Asian, visible/ invisible disabilities, immigrants, adopted, mixed race, refugees.
I requested and received a free temporary e-book on Adobe Digital Editions from Capstone/Capstone Editions via NetGalley. Thank you!
June 19, 2022
Thank you so much to Capstone and Netgalley for the ebook to read and review
This was really cute, what a sweet message to help Asian-American children know that they are important, to give them confidence and that everyone is similar and different to each other no matter their culture.
The story is told in a simple poem style way, focusing on what is great about all these children, from their hobbies and interests to how important they are in this world. It was really precious and really important.
It had really adorable illustrations and so much inclusion throughout the pages. I loved that it was written in an easy way for little ones to read themselves. It was a really sweet read.
This was really cute, what a sweet message to help Asian-American children know that they are important, to give them confidence and that everyone is similar and different to each other no matter their culture.
The story is told in a simple poem style way, focusing on what is great about all these children, from their hobbies and interests to how important they are in this world. It was really precious and really important.
It had really adorable illustrations and so much inclusion throughout the pages. I loved that it was written in an easy way for little ones to read themselves. It was a really sweet read.
February 14, 2022
A book definitely not directed at me, but one whose virtues I can see. It's an affirmatory list poem, defining the life and opportunities and experiences ahead for a young Asian American reader, calmly showing the commonalities and differences in that audience's two cultures and making sure they feel represented. They may love K-pop, colouring things in, traditional crafts, but it's all OK and their relocation and anti-Asian sentiment (especially in the light of Covid's origins) can be shrugged off and replaced by just some of what is great about our world. It's an appealing volume.
March 14, 2022
A charming, and beautifully illustrated book.
You are life honors the complex and amazing identity of children of refugees and immigrants. It grasps who they are, and it promises that they are not invisible. Being who they are is good enough, and I really love that message!
I hope this book will inspire children (and adults) to see that they are enough; it’s good enough being You!
I’d recommend it!
I got this book for free from netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
You are life honors the complex and amazing identity of children of refugees and immigrants. It grasps who they are, and it promises that they are not invisible. Being who they are is good enough, and I really love that message!
I hope this book will inspire children (and adults) to see that they are enough; it’s good enough being You!
I’d recommend it!
I got this book for free from netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
March 27, 2022
"You are not a burden. In a casket of arms, you are the most precious thing."
This book is inspiring the readers to become who they want to be while building up the confidence within oneself to support such dream. It's okay that no one understands you at a certain point; as long as you believe in yourself, the right set of people will support and love you for who you are.
It's such a cute and fun read. I love how colorful and amazing the illustrations are. The colors attract the eyes thus catching the attention of the reader.
This book is inspiring the readers to become who they want to be while building up the confidence within oneself to support such dream. It's okay that no one understands you at a certain point; as long as you believe in yourself, the right set of people will support and love you for who you are.
It's such a cute and fun read. I love how colorful and amazing the illustrations are. The colors attract the eyes thus catching the attention of the reader.
October 5, 2022
Lyrical, lovely text and images that offer a diverse cast but with particular affirmation of Asian/Pacific Island children whose physical identity may have resulted in situati0ns of taunting/bullying or led to witnessing this toward people in their family or communities, especially during the polarized Covid battles. The author note in back is worth reading with young audiences.
Even with this specificity, the overall images and text are universal and valuable, a welcome message for any child.
Even with this specificity, the overall images and text are universal and valuable, a welcome message for any child.
November 24, 2024
5.5 Stars!
This was such a lovely book! There are very few children’s books that will tug at my heartstrings just enough to make me want to read them over and over again. I was not the least bit surprised to learn that Bao Phi is a poet as well, there were definitely elements of poetry throughout this book. I think that this is just such a beautiful sentiment and important to remind kids and adults alike of how unique and special they truly are, no matter what is said about certain aspects of their identities.
This was such a lovely book! There are very few children’s books that will tug at my heartstrings just enough to make me want to read them over and over again. I was not the least bit surprised to learn that Bao Phi is a poet as well, there were definitely elements of poetry throughout this book. I think that this is just such a beautiful sentiment and important to remind kids and adults alike of how unique and special they truly are, no matter what is said about certain aspects of their identities.
March 16, 2022
𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗔𝗿𝗲 𝗟𝗶𝗳𝗲, by Bao Phi and illustrated by Hannah Li is a beautifully illustrated poem celebrating Asian immigrant children, our identity, and embracing all that we are.
In a difficult time of anti-Asian racism, this book focuses on the beauty of our Asian identity, embracing all of who we are, defined by our ancestors but not confined to a box.
We are a dream, a song, we are “𝘀𝗼 𝗰𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗿𝗳𝘂𝗹 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗻𝗼 𝗰𝗿𝗮𝘆𝗼𝗻 𝗯𝗼𝘅” could hold us in.
We can accomplish anything.
In a difficult time of anti-Asian racism, this book focuses on the beauty of our Asian identity, embracing all of who we are, defined by our ancestors but not confined to a box.
We are a dream, a song, we are “𝘀𝗼 𝗰𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗿𝗳𝘂𝗹 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗻𝗼 𝗰𝗿𝗮𝘆𝗼𝗻 𝗯𝗼𝘅” could hold us in.
We can accomplish anything.
June 10, 2022
Representation: 10
Story: 10
Illustration: 10
You Are Life is a beautiful book with an impactful message. Unfortunately, anti-Asian hate exists; I am happy that it has been made aware recently. Books like these are essential to stop this hate. This book is an excellent resource for any child who needs to know they are unique and matter.
** Thanks to the publishers and NetGalley for the ARC in return for an honest review. **
Story: 10
Illustration: 10
You Are Life is a beautiful book with an impactful message. Unfortunately, anti-Asian hate exists; I am happy that it has been made aware recently. Books like these are essential to stop this hate. This book is an excellent resource for any child who needs to know they are unique and matter.
** Thanks to the publishers and NetGalley for the ARC in return for an honest review. **
April 22, 2023
Brilliant poetry, though I struggle to understand what age group it was written for. A lot of the metaphors and imagery seems it would be lost on the youngest of readers. Though I can recognize, as an adult, how beautiful it is.
The last few pages felt the most appropriate for a children's book and I feel that those pages alone would make a wonderful publication.
The art is bright and fun; I can picture young ones pointing at the pages with recognition, wonder and glee.
The last few pages felt the most appropriate for a children's book and I feel that those pages alone would make a wonderful publication.
The art is bright and fun; I can picture young ones pointing at the pages with recognition, wonder and glee.
May 16, 2022
A strong poem that connects with readers of all ages and gives confidence and reassurance for immigrants and refugees. Highlighting a voice and perspective too often overlooked in picture books the engaging illustrations and flowing, yet specific text will amplify that no one is invisible and you have a right to be celebrated! The power of own voices!
May 16, 2022
This was a beautifully written and illustrated response to the Asian violence and discrimination that has affected our country in recent years. By the end, I had tears in my eyes. However, the book does not linger on any traumas faced. Instead, it showcases the beauty of the AAPI community. The illustrations are bright and colorful. This book is just phenomenal all around.
July 19, 2022
I received an electronic ARC from Capstone through NetGalley.
Bao Phi shares a gentle and affirming story of belonging. They capture the many ways children are part of all aspects of life. They belong where they are and they can develop any talents they have. A much needed story at this time. The illustrations capture heritage and current life to weave support and belief with the text.
Bao Phi shares a gentle and affirming story of belonging. They capture the many ways children are part of all aspects of life. They belong where they are and they can develop any talents they have. A much needed story at this time. The illustrations capture heritage and current life to weave support and belief with the text.
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