I Am Loved

I Am Loved is a poetry collection written by Nikki Giovanni and illustrated by Ashley Bryan. The book contains a series of poems centered on the concept and experience of love. Bryan's vibrant watercolor illustrations accompany Giovanni's verses throughout the book. The artwork and poetry combine to create a multimedia experience exploring love in its many forms. Each poem stands on its own while contributing to the collection's themes of self-acceptance, family bonds, and universal connection. The verses range from playful celebrations to contemplative observations. The collection speaks to the human need for love and belonging, offering perspectives on how love manifests in daily life and shapes our understanding of ourselves and others. Through accessible language and imagery, the book presents love as both a personal truth and a shared experience.

Readers appreciate the book's message of self-love and celebration of African American identity. Parents and teachers note it works well as a read-aloud book for children ages 4-8, with illustrations that hold young readers' attention. Liked: - Positive affirmations for children of color - Ashley Bryan's watercolor artwork captures emotion - Simple yet meaningful poetry accessible to young readers - Works for both home and classroom settings Disliked: - Some poems feel disconnected from each other - A few readers found the writing style too basic - Limited appeal beyond the target age group Ratings: Goodreads: 4.1/5 (167 ratings) Amazon: 4.7/5 (47 ratings) One teacher wrote: "The poems gave my students language to express self-worth." A parent noted: "The illustrations brought the words to life for my daughter."

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💝 Nikki Giovanni wrote this collection of poems in celebration of love - particularly the love between a child and their family, friends, and community. 🎨 The book's illustrator, Ashley Bryan, used vibrant watercolors to bring Giovanni's words to life, earning the Coretta Scott King Illustrator Honor in 2018. 📝 Giovanni began writing poetry in the 1960s during the Civil Rights Movement, and her work often celebrates African American culture and identity. 🎓 When she's not writing children's books and poetry, Nikki Giovanni teaches at Virginia Tech University, where she has been a Distinguished Professor since 1987. 🌟 The book's message of self-love and acceptance resonates with its primary theme: everyone deserves to feel loved, valued, and celebrated for who they are.