Cornwall, Gaia. Jabari Jumps. Gaia Cornwall, Illus. Picture Book. Candlewick, 05/2017. [32]pp. $15.99. 978-0-7636-7838-8. OUTSTANDING. GRADES PRE-2.
Jabari, an African American boy, conquers his fear of jumping off the high dive with his father’s advice to consider it a surprise. Jabari’s father is gently encouraging to his son, without being overbearing at a pool with a highly diverse group of swimmers. Cornwall’s striking mixed-media illustrations convey a tremendous amount of emotion and trepidation. The message about overcoming fear by considering it a surprise is applicable in a variety of settings. Recommended for all public library collections. Beth Gousman, Montclair School