I Can Do Hard Things

Some books are pretty straightforward: this is one of them. I like it because it covers a lot of ground and includes lots of diverse kids. Sometimes you want a sweet story, and sometimes you want something more practical. I love that this book gives concrete examples about being brave, strong, and resilient. My son has autism, and when he was small he preferred concept books to stories. This would have been perfect for him—as he took things very literally. It’s a best-seller and comes in a Spanish version.

“I don’t always feel brave, confident, or strong. Sometimes it’s easier to follow others along...” are the first (very honest) words in this empowering picture book full of affirmations. ⁠We naturally pay more attention to negative messages, so it helps to have some truths you can repeat to yourself. It’s a brain thing! The genius of Garcia’s book is the short positive phrases throughout that are relatable for kids and adults alike. I also appreciate the varied cultures, races, religions, and abilities depicted in the representative illustrations. Great for any time of year, this book is a back-to-school must!