I just did not connect with the poetic cadence and the murky, grayish art. It's one of those picture books where the Author's Note is the most interesting part of the book.

(Another project! I'm reading all the picture books and graphic novels from NPR's Books We Love 2021: Kids’ Books list.) ( )

A young child questions whether America accepts all its residents in the way that they love their country.

This is a thought-provoking read that provides a counter to mindlessly reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. Children of color may find the story resonates with their own experiences while white children should be read this to get a sense of what it is like to be outside the majority.

The illustrations are striking and eye-catching.

The book ends with an author's note that explains her family's background and her inspiration in writing this book. ( )