Book Review: Maybe by Kobi Yamada

Maybe: A story about the endless potential in all of us

Written by Kobi Yamada

Illustrated by Gabriella Barouch

This book is probably the most touchingly profound children’s book I have ever read. For a parent whose kids have struggled with their own self worth, self esteem, and their own wills to live; this book is incredible. It gives you hope about the future without dwelling on the pain of the past. It is just about you and the possibilities in front of you. It acknowledges you may fail, and that it is okay to do so. That there is always an opportunity for more after that failure.

The author uses many examples of ways you may make a difference in the world and acknowledges you do not have to do that. You can just discover things about yourself and follow your own dreams. It allows your child to see the possibilities that they may not have considered before. It is not about making money or being the best, it is about being you.

You have value by being you. That is an incredible message to children who have been abandoned. They will spend their whole lives wondering why they were not enough for someone to stay. To be able to gently tell them there are wonderful reasons to continue living is a so powerful.

Even adults read this book and realize that they have been emphasizing the wrong things in life. So much of our self worth is wrapped up in whatever success means. We need to change the way our society perceives success. If we are happy and we find meaning, then we are successful.

The powerful message is paired with absolutely beautiful images. Each page is a new scene and a new moment. You take a journey with the characters. (My kids love the pig.)

I think this is my favorite book of Kobi Yamada. I have most of them already. For the struggling kids and adults in your life, check them out and find one appropriate for whatever struggle they are going through. There is such power in finding a book that speaks to you, no matter how old you are.