Big - Vashti Harrison

 

Big - Vashti Harrison 

Bibliography: 

Harrison, V., Worthington, L., & Bedford, D. (2023). Big. Picture Puffins.

Plot Summary: 

The first picture book written and illustrated by award-winning creator Vashti Harrison traces a child's journey to self-love and shows the power of words to both hurt and heal. With spare text and exquisite illustrations, this emotional exploration of being big in a world that prizes small is a tender portrayal of how you can stand out and feel invisible at the same time.

Critical Analysis:

Big by Vashti Harrison is a beautiful and empowering picture book that tackles the issue of body shaming in a way that is both relatable and heartwarming. Through the eyes of a little girl, we see the journey of how being "big" suddenly becomes a negative thing in society's eyes, and how that can affect a child's self-image and self-worth.

But this book is not about despair or self-pity. Harrison's message is one of self-love and acceptance, regardless of body size or shape. Her illustrations are stunning, and add another layer of depth to the story. As a parent of a young child, reading Big with my daughter was a touching experience that brought up important conversations about body positivity and self-esteem.

I particularly appreciated how the book doesn't shy away from the topic of body shaming, and instead uses it as a starting point to teach children the importance of loving and accepting themselves for who they are. Harrison's message is clear: bodies do not define us, and being "big" can be a source of pride and strength.

Overall, Big is a must-read for parents who want to teach their children the importance of self-love and acceptance, especially in a society that can be cruel and judgmental. Harrison's beautiful artwork and inspiring message will leave a lasting impression on both kids and adults alike.

Review Excerpt: 

Kirkus (starred review)

Bestselling creator Harrison has produced another classic that belongs on every child’s shelf—this is one that will nurture little ones and help them to see the beauty in themselves.... A healing balm with the power to make the world a bit kinder.

Booklist (starred review)

This emotionally and socially resonant picture book stands out with its exceptional strength, beauty, and grace.

School Library Journal (starred review)

This book resonates with a potential emotional impact that is immense....This inspiring and highly relatable title could be used with readers of any age to discuss topics of body image and self-love.

Publisher's Weekly (starred review)

[An] ode to big self-love... Full of important truths about adultification and anti-fat bias, Harrison’s deceptively simple telling tenderly offers the self-affirming beliefs that kids are kids in any body and that it’s okay to take up space.

BookPage (starred review)

Straightforward enough for even very young children to understand and appreciate, but with a vital message for adults too, Big is one of the year’s most exceptional picture books.

Horn Book (starred review)

The text is spare but pointed; Harrison’s emotionally powerful, pink-hued illustrations focus on her protagonist’s inner ­experience... This book offers readers an opportunity to remember that we all deserve love and respect—no matter what size we are.

Connections:

Author Talk with Vashti Harrison from PBS Books

SEL, identity, growth, self-acceptance

Vashti Harrison book tour sites. Would be good to have a talk in person to know more about the background of the book and more about her.