Look, it's me!

A powerful and relatable message

A young man with brown skin smiling while holding his arms. The man is wearing a vertically striped shirt and sports shorts. He is standing in a lovely green open field during sunset.

Review by: Rahim

Gold coloured stars for the rating - 4 stars.
A young man with brown skin smiling while holding his arms. The man is wearing a vertically striped shirt and sports shorts. He is standing in a lovely green open field during sunset.

Review by:
Rahim

Gold coloured stars for the rating - 4 stars.
This image is an abstract illustration featuring a child in action, wearing blue pants and a reddish pink shirt, with black curly hair, short. They appear to be running swiftly, clutching a paint brush in their hand as if they just finished writing the title 'Ish'.

Ish

By Peter Reynolds

A powerful and relatable message

“Ish” is a captivating children’s book that tells the story of Ramon, a young boy who has a deep passion for drawing. Through its pages, the book explores Ramon’s journey as he learns to embrace his own unique artistic style.

One of the standout aspects of “Ish” is its powerful and relatable message. The book encourages readers to try their best and pursue their passions, emphasising that someone will always appreciate and value their efforts. This broad yet impactful message resonates with readers of all ages and can be applied to various aspects of life, instilling a sense of determination and self-belief. 

I particularly appreciated how “Ish” sets a high standard for young people and children. It inspires them to have the courage to express themselves authentically, even if their creations do not conform to conventional expectations. The story beautifully conveys the idea that art, in its various forms, should be celebrated and cherished.

While “Ish” addresses the theme of embracing creativity and self-expression, it does not delve deeply into the topic of disability, despite hints of it being indirectly present in the story. It would have been beneficial if the book had provided a more direct exploration of these key topics and issues, allowing for a more nuanced and inclusive narrative.

“Ish” carries a heartfelt message about the importance of embracing one’s creativity, self-expression, and the beauty of imperfection. The book encourages readers to celebrate their unique qualities and appreciate the distinctive charm that their art holds. 

I would highly recommend “Ish” to young readers, parents, and educators who want to instil a sense of self-confidence and individuality in children. The story’s uplifting message serves as a reminder that art comes in many forms, and the journey of self-discovery and self-expression is one to be embraced and cherished. 

“Ish” beautifully captures the essence of creativity and encourages readers to approach their artistic endeavours with a sense of joy and authenticity. Peter Reynolds’ book celebrates the power of imagination and encourages readers to find inspiration in their own lives. It is a delightful read that will inspire young minds to explore their creative potential and appreciate the beauty of their unique artistic expressions.