Children’s books are a great way to introduce children to language and storytelling. Who do I see in the Mirror? is the debut book from Vese Aghoghovbia Aladewolu and explores the body and inner strength with Philly.
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The Book
Who do I see in the Mirror? is a simple story about Philly, a young girl who looks in the mirror and thinks about what she sees. The book is an introduction to self-acceptance and self-love. Each page explores parts of the body and encourages children to think about how they are much more than their physical appearance. There is an emphasis that every child is unique and the importance of inner beauty. As well as the story, the book is filled with beautiful images of a happy little girl who is discovering who she is and learning to be happy in the skin that she is in.
Thoughts on the Book
This is a book that is focused on body positivity and learning to love yourself because it is inside that counts. The character of Philly is unique and beautifully drawn. Although it could be argued that Who do I see in the Mirror? is geared towards little girls of colour, it would not be out of place in any child’s room. The simple fact is, little girls of colour do not get to see themselves in a lot of places and representation matters (this is why Black Panther was so important). And, little girls in general, do not have a lot of media that has a real focus on self-love. Sure, some TV shows and books touch on the subject but Who do I see in the Mirror? is direct with the message “no matter what you look like, you matter as a person”.
Thoughts on the Author
Vese Aghoghovbia Aladewolu was born in Lagos, Nigeria until she was 15 years old. She then moved to England to study her A-levels in Bristol. After this, she moved on to Imperial College London and graduated with a Master of Engineering degree. Following the birth of her first daughter, Vese began exploring different ways to build confidence in children. Her goal is to empower the next generation to love and believe in themselves. This has lead to the launch of Philly & Friends, a children’s brand with the purpose of helping underprivileged children around the world. Vese is a founding member of the Aghoghovbia Foundation, set up to empower little girls and Inspiring Role Models, a social enterprise dedicated to helping others to achieve their dreams.
Overall
This is a wonderful children’s book that is easy to read for early readers but still retains its powerful message. Each page is beautifully presented with bright images and large print. There is an added extra at the end with a certificate that can be cut out (without damaging the rest of the book) and it can be hung on the wall. I love the character of Philly and how is depicted in the pictures. The language that is used will help inspire little ones to find their inner strength and their own unique qualities.
Did you like this review of Who do I see in the Mirror? Then check out some other children’s books that I have reviewed-