Who Do I See in the Mirror?
Book Details
Who Do I See in the Mirror?
Vese Aghoghovbia-Aladewolu, ill. Irene Omiunu. London: Philly &Belle Publishing, hb, 978 1 9993 4980 6, 2018, £10.00, 32pp.
Picture book, fiction, 2-5 years
This sweet, delicately illustrated picture book shows a little girl noticing and celebrating all she sees in the mirror – from her ‘soft brown skin’ to her ‘big brown eyes’ – and the realisation that it’s what is inside a person that really counts.
When Philly looks in the mirror, she sees so much to love including her eyes, her hair, her legs and her round tummy. In authentic childlike fashion, she wonders in the simplest prose if there is another Philly behind the mirror – but no, there’s only one – she is unique! This charming touch helps present Philly as a lively pre-schooler, full of wonder and openness.
This gentle, positive book offers an uplifting way to encourage all children to value their individuality and their inner qualities – in Philly’s case, her ‘good heart and curious mind’. The words ‘I am beautifully made. I am wonderfully me. I love me’ are just what every young child needs and deserves to hear.
The airy, mainly pastel colour palette is calming and refreshing and the hardback format marks Who Do I See in the Mirror? out as a welcome gift book. There’s space to fill in a child’s own name, adding another appealing touch.
Publishing brand Philly & Friends was, its founders say, born out of a desire to teach children to see beauty in themselves and to believe they can be anything they want to be. It will be interesting to see what the company publishes next; Who Do I See in the Mirror? is an excellent start.
Review by Dr Kate Lee