I Am One: A Book of Action

This intriguing picture book addresses an important issue in our society – community activism. Susan Verde urges even the youngest community members to contribute in some small way in order to make change. I Am One: A Book of Action is a bold statement about the power of the individual to change the world by their actions. The dedications emphasize this idea, “To every ONE. You make a difference,” and “To Greta Thunberg, who showed the world the power of ONE young person.” Greta’s work to change attitudes about climate change is a great example for young people.

On the very first page, the tiny main character asks a colourful bird, “How do I make a difference?” She doubts her ability to make a difference because she is “so small”. However, when the bird gives her a seed, she realizes that “beautiful things start with just One”. She can plant the seed to start a garden! She can also do other things that will bring joy to others: paint a masterpiece, compose a melody, start a journey, and break down walls. All of these actions start with “one” thing such as a stroke of paint, a musical note, a step, and a brick.

As the main character breaks down her literal wall, she also realizes that her actions can bridge gaps to create joy. Gentle words start conversations and friendships. Acts of kindness start human connections. Tender hugs start caring relationships. Lighting a candle can start progress. Making a drop in the water can lead to ripple effects that traverse oceans and borders. Even this tiny young lady can “start a chain reaction, inspire a movement, make a change”.

The illustrations by Peter Reynolds are remarkable! He has used bright colours to illustrate the actions of the tiny main character. She is dressed in bright yellow and pink, but she interacts with her environment in very active ways. The other characters in this book are also vibrantly portrayed: a colourful bird, a blue-haired young boy, an energetic brown dog. Once they decide to take action, they meet a widely diverse group of young people who have also started to take action on their own.

Susan Verde’s books promote empathy and compassion and validate the experiences of children. This is the fifth book in the “I Am” series which includes: I Am Love: A Book of Compassion, I Am Human: A Book of Empathy, I Am Peace: A Book of Mindfulness, and I Am Yoga. Verde’s text in I Am One: A Book of Action is easy to read for young readers, but it can also be used as a read-aloud. There is a great deal to discuss here. The book’s contents will encourage young readers to think about important issues such as: kindness, community activism, peace, climate change, problem-solving, compassion, and determination.

The “Author’s Note” is a wonderful addition to the picture book. It discusses the writer’s inspiration for the book, a quote from the Dalai Lama: “Just as ripples spread out when a single pebble is dropped into the water, the actions of individuals can have far-reaching effects.” Verde calls on all readers to become activists. She also answers the question, “How do we begin?” She discusses the need for mindfulness meditation and self-reflection and gives instructions on how to meditate.

I Am One: A Book of Action has a powerful message for readers. Every human being, no matter how young or old, can start taking actions which will lead to positive change. Each of us can make a difference in our community – and our world.