Queer Eye star Jonathan Van Ness’s second picture book is an ode to self-expression and self-love.
I won’t be afraid to stand out
or show the world what I’m all about.
I am exactly who I’m meant to be.
Perfectly, happily, gorgeously me!
A cast of children diverse in many ways narrate this first-person rhyming poem, affirming their pride in themselves, their range of emotions, and the friends that help them through tough times. While the book starts as a celebration of self, it widens into one of friendship and community, asking readers to consider how to “be the best YOU,” loving both oneself and others.
One child, who reads as a boy, wears a skirt and appears on multiple pages. In one sequence, with a hug of support from a friend, he takes the stage to perform ballet with two girls. Another page shows two moms and their baby in the background.
A sweet book with a lovely message.
