I AM EVERY GOOD THING by Derrick Barnes, Illus. by Gordon C. James. New York:
Nancy Paulsen Books, 2020. 32p. ISBN 978-0525518778 hc. $17.99     Gr. K-2     E PIC

Barnes is a master of creative adjectives, similes, and metaphors that can be used to describe 
a person.  How many ways can you describe yourself?  Readers can answer this question by 
thinking about all the interests they have and their aspirations for the future.  Barnes lyrically 
describes his character in sports terms, musical terms, and genealogical terms for starters.  
The verse is accompanied by striking oil paintings of people in action, doing all the things
mentioned in the book.  Both the author and illustrator have won several awards for their 
outstanding work in children's literature.  It's outstanding!
Lynette Suckow, Superiorland Preview Center, Marquette, MI