"Dear You, Dream Big!" by Baptiste Paul is a powerful and uplifting children's book that serves as a heartfelt affirmation for Black and Brown children everywhere. Through poetic prose and vibrant illustrations, Paul delivers a message of empowerment and resilience, encouraging young readers to dream big and pursue their passions, no matter the obstacles they may face.

The book opens with a bold declaration: "ANYTHING and EVERYTHING is possible!" From there, Paul explores the endless possibilities that lie ahead for the reader, whether they aspire to be artists, scientists, or even president. With each page turn, Paul's lyrical verses serve as a reminder that dreams know no bounds and that every child has the potential to achieve greatness.

What sets "Dear You, Dream Big!" apart is its celebration of Black creativity, leadership, and innovation. Through diverse representation and affirming language, Paul ensures that Black and Brown children see themselves reflected in the pages of the book and feel empowered to embrace their identities and talents.

The illustrations, which are vibrant and dynamic, complement Paul's text beautifully, bringing his words to life with energy and emotion. Each illustration serves to reinforce the book's message of resilience and possibility, creating a visual feast for the eyes that will captivate young readers.

While "Dear You, Dream Big!" is undoubtedly a celebration of Black pride and achievement, its message of empowerment is universal and resonant for children of all backgrounds. By encouraging readers to reject those who seek to silence or exclude them, Paul inspires children to stand tall, embrace their uniqueness, and pursue their dreams with passion and determination.

Overall, "Dear You, Dream Big!" is a lyrical anthem of hope and possibility that will inspire and uplift readers of all ages. With its powerful message and captivating artwork, this book is sure to become a beloved classic for generations to come.

This book made me smile from the beginning. I love the positivity and can't wait to share it with my students. Everyone deserves to hear the phrase, "Dear you, dream big!" The illustrations added to the story and made me feel for the characters in a short amount of time.

I had many dreams for my future when I was a kid, and lucky me, some have come true. Some were practical (for example, becoming an elementary school teacher), while others, not so much (for example, like eating only junk food all day long 😅). Regardless, I have always been fortunate enough to have been supported in achieving my dreams as I was growing up.

Which is why books like DEAR YOU, DREAM BIG! (written by Baptiste Paul, illustrated by Toni D. Chambers, published by Charlesbridge) are so important for young readers— especially for Black and Brown children. This uplifting book lovingly encourages children to dream big even when the world we live in is full of barriers created to stop Black and Brown people in fulfilling their dreams, goals, and maximum potential. Even when history has shown that systems have been created and upheld to empower certain voices and silence theirs, young readers are reminded throughout the book to keep dreaming big because anything and everything is possible!

DEAR YOU, DREAM BIG! is an important book. For racialized young readers, especially Black and Brown, this book not only reminds them of their potential to achieve their biggest dreams, but it also reminds them of the intelligence, brilliance, accomplishments, and sacrifices of their ancestors. Concepts like racism, systemic oppression, and racial identity are the underlying themes of this book, and opportunities for teaching these are plentiful with this book. In this sense then, while the author and illustrator may have dedicated their loving message with this book to Black and Brown children, this book is for EVERYONE to learn, unlearn, and re-learn.

The point and meaning of this book is great. I do wish, however, that it had been presented in a more story-like fashion. I think that would better capture the attention of young authors.
Illustration are great and otherwise a lovely little book about black pride.

An inspiring, empowering, and lyrical short that is sure to touch the minds and hearts of parents and kids everywhere

An inspiring and empowering picture book that encourages black and brown children to dream big!
The illustrations were beautiful!

A small but empowering children's book. The art style is beautiful, with gorgeous full page illustrations. The artwork follows characters who we are introduced to as they explore their passions and grow into successful adults. A fun and encouraging read for young children.

The path may not always be direct but you can achieve GREAT things! Be anything! Don't let others tear you down.
It will not always be EASY! Speak your voice!
A story that needs to be told over and over! Believe in YOU!

This was a cute book with good illustrations. It had a positive message to motivate children,, especially of color, to not give up and to dream big.

Excellent book. Very moving. Informative and entertaining. Great read for all students. I cannot wait to get this in my library and read it aloud.

I understand what the author was trying to say, but I think it wasn’t said in the best way. This book is telling children of color that all white people are out to get them, and that’s not only untrue, but kind of sad to be telling little kids. Let’s inspire them without telling them that they can’t trust their teachers or anyone who is white. The pictures really cemented this message too that black children can’t trust anybody because they’re being targeting inside their schools and any social settings.

Dear You, Dream Big is a picture book that discusses the hard facts of being black in a white culture.
Some of the thoughts show an anti-white theme which doesn’t promote racial harmony. Unsure if I would promote this in a classroom. Had many negative connotations. I get what the author was trying to say, but he/she didn’t choose the best words to convey his ideas.

"Anything and everything is possible."

A story of hope, perseverance, and reverence to past heroes, this is a beautiful story. Recommend for anyone looking for inspiration to continue. Wonderful illustrations and artwork.

As author Baptiste Paul says, "To every Black and Brown child ... 'DREAM BIG.'"

Gorgeous, inspiring book letting children of color know that they can grow up to be anything they want. The prose is rhythmic and the illustrations make great use of color. Fantastic, inspiring book for kids.
Thanks to NetGalley for letting me read this