I Am Every Good Thing

Selected by Oprah Magazine as one of its 'essential books for discussing racism with kids'.
I am a non-stop ball of energy.
Powerful and full of light.
I am a go-getter. A difference-maker. A leader.
Step inside the mind of the confident narrator of this book. He is proud of everything that makes him who he is. He's got big plans, and will see them through. He's creative, adventurous, smart, funny. A good friend. A superhero. Sometimes he falls, but he always gets back up. And other times he's afraid, because he's often misunderstood. So, slow down, look and listen as he shows you who he really is …
Featured in the Booktrust Great Books Guide 2021
Observer Children’s Picture Book of the Month
Perfect for fans of Dapo Adeola’s Hey You!
‘Pitch-perfect… Gordon C James’s painted portraits brim with spirit and dignity. The result is a truly special book by an American author-illustrator duo at the top of their game’ – Imogen Carter, Observer
‘A poetic paean to the brilliance of black boys, its energetic pages filled with courage, joy and vivid, dynamic illustrations’ – Guardian
‘A powerful celebration of Black boyhood’ – Booklist, starred review
‘A much-needed book for Black children when society demonstrates otherwise’ – Kirkus Reviews, starred review
‘This beautiful and necessary book that affirms Black boys and their right to thrive’ – Horn Book, starred review
‘An empowering ode to Black boy joy’ – Publishers Weekly, starred review
‘Page after page of empowering text speaks to energetic children everywhere’ – School Library Journal, starred review

Reviews

‘Children everywhere should read I AM EVERY GOOD THING. It is beautiful, joyous & life affirming.’ – David Walliams
‘A poetic paean to the brilliance of black boys, its energetic pages filled with courage, joy and vivid, dynamic illustrations.’ Guardian
‘A stunning visual poem dedicated to supporting and loving black boys, I Am Every Good Thing features incredible illustration from Gordon C. James which really brings a tear to the eye on some particularly emotive spreads.’ Booktrust
‘Barnes and James provide us with a range of powerful, positive names to call Black boys as they urge us to see them, to love them, and to let them live their lives as they deserve.…' Horn Book
'Together, James’s energetic portraiture and Barnes’s affirming text powerfully and ecstatically convey the idea that all Black boys are “worthy to be loved.' Publisher Weekly
'“The text has a cadence that demands to be read out loud, performed, sung, or shouted with joy and veracity. The need for a book like this, at a moment like this, could not be greater.…' Booklist
‘A much-needed book for Black children.' Kirkus
'A worthy and timely choice for every collection.' School Library Journal
'Barnes’ playful, potent style draws on inviting metaphor to lift this well above the usual supportive picture book celebration.' BCCB