Review by Eric Page
Inspired by a classic folk song, particularly well known to LGBTQ+ Americans, which is celebrating its fortieth anniversary, this beautifully illustrated and heart-warming picture book is a moving tribute to following your dreams. If you don’t know the song there’s an easy QR code link, which will take you to versions of the song to sing along to, along with a brand-new, free Stories Aloud audio recording with revised lyrics. The song was recorded and made famous by the iconic gay male a cappella group the Flirtations, the music travelled around the world. Author Fred Small is a passionate advocate for equality, inclusion and environmental justice.
It’s a simple, clear joyful and inclusive story about love, acceptance and following your heart. The narrative is affirming and inclusive, stating that: strong and bold, or quiet and kind, every child is unique and their future filled with possibilities. Fred Small’s iconic folk song became an anthem for generations and this book grows out of that space and into a story about celebrating difference and potential. It’s a superb book for LGBTQ+ parents who are looking for inclusive, fun and easy read material for their families.
Everything Possible celebrates love and friendship, gently encouraging children to dream their own dream and choose their own path, wherever it may take them.
The colourful illustrations from Alison Brown offer a visually all-encompassing unconditional loving narrative that supports both song and story, and celebrates the diversity of younger people, letting them ‘see themselves’ in the inspiring and uplifting stories.
This sensible, empowering picture book is perfect for children everywhere and is another great book from publishers Nosy Crow. All their picture books come with a free Stories Aloud audio reading.
All together now:
‘You can be anybody you want to be,
You can love whomever you will
You can travel any country where your heart leads
And know I will love you still
You can live by yourself, you can gather friends around,
You can choose one special one
And the only measure of your words and your deeds
Will be the love you leave behind when you’re done’
Out now, £7.99
For more info or to buy the book see the publisher’s website here:
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