Rockin' Reads: Jabari Jumps

Written and Illustrated by Gaia Cornwall
Candlewick Press, 2017. Picture Book.

Jabari has finished his swimming lessons and has passed his swim test. Today he announces he is ready to jump off the diving board, which is a little high and a little scary. Well...he's almost ready. Maybe the other kids should go first... Readers young and old will relate to Jabari as he works up the courage to take on the diving board. With help from his patient dad, Jabari's hesitation turns into determination.

This is a perfect summer picture book! Summer is a great time for taking risks and trying new things, and Jabari's dad gives advice that can help anyone "take the leap": It's okay to feel scared. Take a deep breath and tell yourself you're ready. Sometimes it stops feeling scary and feels a little like a surprise.

It's a joy to see Jabari overcome his fears in this sweet picture book. Check it out!

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