Kat Kronenberg’s Live Big: Catch-M is a heartfelt and whimsical journey through self-belief, love, and the power of positivity. Using poetic storytelling, vibrant imagery, and a cast of endearing characters, the book weaves an inspiring message about embracing one’s extraordinary self. At its core, it’s about overcoming fear, listening to one’s heart, and recognizing the boundless potential within. Through the metaphor of CATCH-M, a glowing love spark that fuels everything in the universe, the book encourages readers, especially children, to believe in their dreams and find strength in kindness, gratitude, and connection.

Right from the beginning, the book sweeps readers into an ethereal yet deeply personal experience. The protagonist, CATCH-M, starts alone, lost in the darkness, battling shadow thoughts. The depiction of fear and loneliness is surprisingly raw for a children’s book, but it also makes the transformation so powerful. When CATCH-M learns to embrace love, the darkness shifts and a newfound sense of self-worth emerges. The poetic rhythm and repetition, “Om, om, om” and “Smile big and believe,” create a soothing, almost meditative effect, reinforcing the idea that self-acceptance and bravery are daily practices rather than one-time epiphanies.

One of the most striking aspects of the book is how it merges science and storytelling. The references to Carl Sagan’s star-stuff idea, Earth’s magnetic field, and the formation of stars add an unexpected but delightful layer. When a baby cheetah finds courage, it’s compared to hydrogen atoms fusing into helium, a simple yet profound analogy about transformation. These details make the book feel not just inspirational but also subtly educational. They help ground its whimsical narrative in real-world wonder, making its message of love and connection feel cosmic yet deeply personal.

The writing itself is lyrical, almost song-like, and the rhythm makes the message feel uplifting. The phrase “CATCH-M’s love is always in your heart” appears multiple times, and while it reinforces the theme for younger children, this repetition likely serves as a comforting reminder.

Live Big: Catch-M is an inspiring and visually engaging book that radiates warmth and optimism. It’s perfect for children who need encouragement in moments of doubt, as well as parents and educators looking for a meaningful way to discuss self-love, bravery, and kindness. The book’s unique blend of science, storytelling, and emotion makes it a standout in the realm of inspirational children’s literature. If you’re someone who loves stories that encourage dreaming big and believing in yourself, this is a book worth sharing.

Pages: 40 | ISBN : 979-8-88645-341-6