'The best books, reviewed with insight and charm, but without compromise.'
- author Jackie French

Wednesday 4 January 2023

Review: I'll Take Care Of You

This beautiful book celebrates all that is wholesome and pure and mysterious and magical and good in the world. Themes such as science, the seasons, kindness and generosity are interwoven through the comforting words and gorgeous illustrations. 

A seed needs love and care from the elemental forces. Then a bird needs love and care from the apple tree that has grown from the seed. Then the bird’s hatchling spreads the apple’s seeds with love and care, and so the cycle begins again.

All the while, a young reader absorbs the idea of caring for others and of being taken care of, through immersion in this cyclical story and glorious, vibrant illustrations. A combination of collage and acrylic painting bring I’ll Take Care Of You to life in the most adorable and unexpected of ways. Caring is the essence of the story.

Don’t worry, I’ll take care of you.

This phrase is repeated throughout and fosters a soothing, uplifting sense of reassurance and joy that we are all in this world together. It also brings the welcome sense that no matter how tough things might become, it’s okay. Help is on the way.

I love this book with more than just my eyes and my brain. I could almost feel my heart expanding as I read it and pored over the magnificent, vibrant, joyous illustrations.

Physically, I’ll Take Care Of You is a little larger than most and it has the added lushness of a dustjacket.

But mostly it’s just a stunningly beautiful and unique picture book.

Title: I’ll Take Care Of You
Author: Maria Loretta Giraldo
Illustrators: Nicoletta Bertelle
Publisher: Blue Dot, $18.95
Publication Date: April 2022
Format: Hardcover with jacket
ISBN: 9781737603238
For ages: 3 - 7
Type: Picture Book