The “it” factor–we have all heard about it. Some have it, and some don’t. Even if we don’t have it, we recognize it in others. Joe isn’t sure if he has “it.” He wants more than anything to thrill audiences and move their hearts with his music. He feels at home on the stage, but he can’t shake the feeling that his skills are not good enough–not the “it” that everyone wants and expects. As he takes his place on an empty theater stage, Joe imagines himself in a big-time band. He begins to play, never knowing that his life is about to take a most unexpected turn.

IT: A Children’s Book about Encouragement and Discovering One’s Gifts, written by Mark Hattas and illustrated by Aubrey Foster, is a story filled with hope, empowerment, and an important lesson in self-confidence. Hattas’s main character, Joe, sees his future wherever he looks when he is onstage, and it is truly amazing. He, like so many of us, lacks the self-confidence to step out of his comfort zone. Joe is a shining example of what it means to be young and have a dream. Readers will find Joe as likable as he is relatable.

I was struck by Hattas’s unique choice of point of view. The use of a second-person point of view is not something you see often in books of this genre, and I found it to be both an interesting and effective tactic. This speaks volumes about the author’s knowledge of his audience and ability to reach readers through his narratives.

Aubrey Foster’s illustrations draw the reader into Joe’s experience onstage. With a style that will remind many readers of anime artwork, Foster has effectively portrayed Hattas’s main character and put his every emotion front and center with clean lines, vibrant colors, and soft highlights that illuminate both her illustrations and Hattas’s message.

IT: A Children’s Book about Encouragement and Discovering One’s Gifts is a beautifully illustrated and spiritually moving account of hope. Hattas’s work is billed as a children’s book, though the message is one for any age. Hattas’s work is deep and thoughtful and will, no doubt, leave a lasting impression on readers.

Pages: 39 | ASIN : B08JHMZDMP