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Sail

Little, Brown. Mar. 2021. 40p. Tr $17.99. ISBN 9780316495486.
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PreS-Gr 1–In this sailing-as-metaphor-for-life story in verse, a child picks a sailboat out of many other watercrafts in the harbor to “step on board and leave the shore. Prepare yourself to discover more. Raise the anchor and set the course. Follow your heart. Use the wind’s force.” An inspirational message accompanies each part of the adventure, whether it’s battling wild gales while maneuvering in the ocean, diving deep underwater to discover the wonders there, or returning to the boat to sail into calm waters. Double-page spreads use watercolors to portray sweeping ocean vistas in predominantly light teal and gray colors, with occasional pops of color in the underwater scenes. Adeptly conveyed is the majesty of the tumultuous waves, teeming marine life, and moonlit stillness. The last page features a list of “Some Things To Think About” meant as thought-provoking, but potentially better for adults to sound out with the picture book audience.
VERDICT More suitable as a graduation gift than a story for young readers, this motivational book replete with positive messages would be at home on the shelf with Sometimes You Fly by Katherine Applegate.

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