Kobi Yamada (Finding Muchness) and Gabriella Barouch join forces again (Maybe) for a gorgeous picture book that offers several imaginative, inspirational ways for readers to live their own unique, "rare and wonderful" lives. A child with light brown skin wearing a hooded, animal-eared vest scrutinizes a puddle of water, their white fox-like pup by their side. The child is shown investigating their "vast treasure of talents" and making "the most of every moment," including riding in a magical balloon guided by flying stingrays, petting an enormous turtle with a crown, and examining ice crystals while cuddling with a menagerie of wild animals. Even though "the way might be difficult," courage, small steps, and the faith to keep going turn "shrinking possibilities" into "second chances."
Yamada's uplifting text nudges readers to find the extraordinary every day and embrace it--"especially the messy parts." Barouch's splendid illustrations feature the realistically rendered child wearing an orange and yellow vest that stands out against the generous white space and pastel colors that permeate the fanciful backgrounds. Why Not? is a perfect gift to entice young readers to explore themselves and ask "Why not see how good your best can be?" --Lynn Becker, reviewer, blogger, and children's book author