Byll and Beth Stephen (text) and Simon Howe (illustrator), How Brave I Can Be, HarperCollins Publishers, May 2023, 24 pp., RRP $22.99 (hbk), ISBN 9780733342721
Byll and Beth Stephens are better known as Aria Award winning children’s band the Teeny Tiny Stevies. Their music gently explores challenges faced by today’s children, such as new siblings, toilet training, body autonomy and healthy eating. Unlike some children’s music, parents actually enjoy singing along to the Teeny Tiny Stevies’ indie/folk/pop songs.
How Brave I Can Be, based on the song of the same name, explores the mixed feelings experienced by children and parents as they grow and develop together. From nervous and uneasy in the young years, through to confident and fearless as everyone finds their groove, then wistful and thoughtful as a child becomes independent and pulls away. Parents will relate to the rollercoaster of emotions explored in the story, and it might be helpful to keep a box of tissues nearby while reading. Fans of the band will likely read along to the tune of the catchy song.
The illustrations by Simon Howe are bright and fun. They show a loving family progressing through life stages in a variety of familiar settings. The illustrations cleverly highlight the different points of view that the story explores through the use of colour. Relatable details like washing piles and a cheeky dog are fun additions. How Brave I Can Be is the fourth picture book by Byll and Beth Stephens with Simon Howe.
Children aged 4 and older, as well as their parents, are sure to enjoy this heartfelt picture book.
Reviewed by Laura Holloway
