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Actress, mental-health advocate, and debut picture-book author Henson's text follows Lil TJ as she embarks on a journey to her first day of school, excited about the new friendships she plans to make. However, when a kid named Beau begins to bully her, putting her down, Lil TJ begins to retreat into herself instead of being authentic and confident. But when she follows the advice of her beloved grandma to treat others with kindness as she would wish to be treated, she learns how to resolve matters peacefully with her new bully and turn him into an apologetic new friend. Coupled with Kellam's vibrant, stylistic illustrations that make everything neon colored and lively, Henson's story line shows young readers that kindness and empathy are key, that we shouldn't judge a book by its cover, and that differences should be celebrated, not mocked. A closing note from the author imparts advice to parents dealing with children who are being bullied. * Booklist * In actor and mental health advocate Henson's debut picture book, a young girl facing troubles at school takes her grandma's advice. Lil TJ can't wait to start school and make new friends. She has her own unique style, and she lets it shine on her first day. She participates eagerly, but at recess, a boy named Beau gives her a hard time. Beau mocks everything about her, from her small stature to the peanut butter and tomato sandwich she eats at lunch. Lil TJ starts to dull her shine. She wears plain clothes and styles her hair like the other girls in class to avoid Beau's attention, but she's still nervous. And will she ever make friends? Grandma Patsy, with whom Lil TJ talks almost daily on her tablet, reminds her that nurturing friendships takes time and tells her she should continue to be her sweet self. The next day at recess, Lil TJ stays inside and plays music. When other kids hear, they join her, and Beau looks nervous as he struggles with an instrument. Lil TJ remembers Grandma Patsy's words of wisdom and takes the opportunity to turn her and Beau's relationship around. While the message is timeless and the characters likable, the story's resolution feels a bit too easy. Lively, expressive, cartoonlike illustrations bring the straightforward text to life. Lil TJ is Black, Beau is brown-skinned, and their class is diverse. A solid choice for starting discussions on bullying, friendship, and kindness. (author's note) (Picture book. 4-7) * Kirkus Reviews *

Author Information

Taraji P. Henson is a multiple award-winning actor, writer, director, producer, and activist for mental health. She is the New York Times bestselling author of Around the Way Girl. Her natural humor and honesty, and her desire to encourage everyone to live true to yourself are reflected in Lil TJ, the main character in her first picture book. Taraji is a Washington DC native and currently lives in Los Angeles, CA. Paul Kellam is an illustrator based in Jacksonville, where his first drawings began in crayon on his parents’ home walls. At an early age, he developed a love for art, inspired by the many cartoons he watched so passionately. Paul breathes life into his work using juicy hues and rhythmic shapes, proudly illustrating stories that celebrate diversity and paint all shades in a positive light. He illustrated the award-winning novel The Good Turn as well as Antonello: Mellow Fellow. Paul loves to eat (especially Chinese), tend to plants, and watch anime with his roomie.

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