My Little Brave Girl

January 18, 2021
In actor Duff’s motivational picture book debut, an unnamed narrator emboldens girls to move through their lives with assurance. “The world is big, my little brave girl. It’s all here for you,” Duff begins, continuing in phrases that highlight a promising future filled with ample opportunities. In soft hues, Garrity-Riley portrays an inclusive group of doll-like children collaboratively engaging in work and play. The girls frolic with fireflies under a bright night sky (“The stars are high, and you can reach them”), swim in a busy sea (“Oceans run deep, and you will learn to swim”), and bandage a rabbit’s hurt paw (“Kindness is the way the world goes round”) before dreaming of various professions, including athlete, astronaut, and scientist. Though the positive text showcases a boundless world where being “brave” is almost beside the point, it also offers a clear reminder to spread kindness, dream big, and make the most of one’s future. Ages 3–7.