A Million YES’s by DJ Corchin and Dan Dougherty is currently available, but I read it via an online reader copy. It is an interesting book on self-care. Not so much the theme, we have read the idea of taking care of yourself and your health (mental and physical before), even in picture books, but this time there is something different and new in the presentation.
There are interesting illustrations that are fun and silly, but include a serious attitude as well. Dougherty is not afraid to use color, but does seem to be afraid of too many details. But that is okay, as it works really well. This minimalist approach is on many pages, but when things explode, they have fun. The reader needs to pay attention to the artwork as well as the text, which allows the two to be complimentary of each other. Boundary building has never been as cleverly done before.
Our character likes to help her friends, by always saying yes. After all a Yes here and there is not a problem, she has plenty! But of course, soon she is down to hardly any Yes’s left, becoming sick, tired, and unwell. Of course, we know she will find a way to save a few Yes’s for herself, not give them out without thought, and will even say No once in a while. The child reader will see how one can balance being friendly with being healthy. Good for most ages, know your reader if they are ready for the concept or the less that physical action packed elements to things.
