What Does It Mean to Be Safe?

May 6, 2019
In this fifth entry in the What Does It Mean to Be series, a bright-eyed girl and her biracial parents—who are sworn in as citizens in the book’s final spread—experience and exemplify the promise of America. DiOrio and Yoran point out that being American isn’t a matter of address or appreciation of fast food and fireworks; instead, it’s about volunteering, working hard to achieve dreams, “follow the same rules,” and “appreciating that our differences make us kinder, smarter, healthier, and stronger.” Mata’s cheery vignettes have a sprightly specificity and a strong sense of human connection that lifts them above the usual patriotic depictions; her settings are both familiar (the Statue of Liberty, a redwood grove) and fresh (the wedding of a Jewish groom and an Indian bride). Noteworthy for its unabashed open-heartedness and its insistence that there is common ground. An author’s note and discussion guide are included. Ages 4–up.

October 25, 2019

K-Gr 2-In this addition to the series, DiOrio explains safety in the context of a variety of scenarios regularly encountered by children. She includes both physical and esoteric definitions of safety, such as freedom from fears of injury, abuse, bullying, and discrimination. Much of the book unfolds in one sentence that begins "Being safe means..." Liu's illustrations show children encountering unsafe situations and overcoming them, often with the help of a caring adult. In one example, a woman hugs a young girl while a nearby boy apprehensively anticipates a hug that he does not want. When the woman reaches to hug him, he steps back and offers her a high-five instead. She returns it with a smile. The accompanying text reads, "...understanding that yes means yes, and that silence is not yes." Expressive faces and body postures reinforce concepts. Children and adults in "safe" situations smile broadly and exude positivity and hopefulness. Two specific scenes are noteworthy. In one, a boy builds a toy wall, blocking two girls of color. In another, a joyous congregation holds signs and flags that promote acceptance. To a child without preconceived notions, these are simple black-and-white concepts of exclusivity and inclusivity. However, some adults may find them heavy-handed. VERDICT The message that all children deserve a safe, caring environment is one that transcends politics and deserves sharing.-Lisa Taylor, Florida State College, Jacksonville

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