Parents' Guide to

Remember

By Sun Cooper, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 4+

Gorgeous, poetic reminder of child's place in the world.

Book Joy Harjo Picture Book 2023
Remember book cover: A young girl with curly, brown hair and a braid over her shoulder holds her hands open; a symbolic mix of warm and vibrant colors in red and purple, land animals, sea life, insects and plants swirl around her

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this book.

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What's the Story?

REMEMBER is a well-known poem by former U.S. Poet Laureate Joy Harjo which comes to life in this picture book where every page prompts young readers to contemplate a personal connection — to family, to community, to nature and the universe. An author's note by Joy Harjo and an artist's note by Caldecott Medalist Michaela Goade further enhance young readers' knowledge and reflection about this Indigenously-informed narrative.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: Not yet rated
Kids say: Not yet rated

Joy Harjo and Michaela Goade have created a stunning invitation for readers of all backgrounds and cultures to delve into their own sense of connection and belonging. Remember is brimming with warmth and wisdom, introducing young readers to the accessibility of poetry and the practice of deeper perception. Illustrations convey imaginative worlds to the words on the page, which are skillfully crafted poetic lines using personification, metaphor, imagery, and repetition. This is an heirloom-worthy book full of insights to offer young readers, to inspire their own poems, and to pass down from generation to generation.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about their own heritage inspired by the prompts presented in Remember. What is important about your family's history to remember?

  • Explore outside. Notice what you might feel -- just by paying attention. What are you grateful for in nature?

  • What do you like about poetry? Practice writing down a thought, memory, or "yearning" into a poem.

Book Details

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