We Listen to Our Bodies (We Say What's Okay)

Centering the sensory experiences of preschooler Deja, a Black child with a floral headwrap and two pigtail puffs, this picture book imparts notable lessons about body awareness. When Deja feels "shivery" and pushes a classmate during a game of tag, her tan-skinned teacher Mr. B, who uses a wheelchair, comes over to discuss the impulse and how to address the feelings behind it. He also shares the importance of "listening to our bodies"--recognizing emotions and respective somatic responses--with the rest of the class. Muñoz's bright digital illustrations feature a classroom populated mainly by teachers and children of color. Employing nuanced dialogue ("Your bodies are sending different messages... and that's ok!"), the book offers a solid way to begin discussions on the topic. Back matter includes "Consent: A Guide for Caring Adults" and "We Listen to Our Bodies," a song by Peaceful Schools. Ages 3-5. (Mar.)

PreS-Gr 1--This introduction for children about listening to their bodies, while rather workmanlike, could find an appreciative audience in parents and preschool teachers. Deja's rushed morning has her feeling out of sorts. While playing tag outside at preschool she pushes another child. This leads to her compassionate teacher introducing the class to the concept of listening to their bodies and understanding what they are telling them. The text succeeds fairly well: concise, keeping to child-accessible language and concepts, giving the children a voice, while allowing the teacher to gently guide. One jarring use of the comment "Oh, yeah" from the teacher, whose positive intent there belies the slightly aggressive phraseology, detracts from the otherwise effective story. The art depicts a multicultural classroom. Deja has dark skin and curly hair, one child wears a hijab, one boy likes glittery high heels, and the male teacher has brown skin and uses a wheelchair. The slightly cartoony, brightly colored illustrations will appeal to the audience well enough, despite lacking distinction. The book ends with a four-page guide for parents and teachers on consent and teaching children body awareness. There is also a song. VERDICT This storybook introduction to learning about physical and emotional awareness will fill a need in preschool classrooms and libraries serving preschool families.--Amy Lilien-Harper, Wilton Lib., CT