"I BELIEVE IN YOU," by Marianne Richmond, Sourcebooks, $15.99, 32 pages (ages 4-8)
The message in Marianne Richmond’s love-and-pride book is universal: “Growing up is a big, big job” but there’s always someone to believe in “one amazing you.”
Even though the watercolor wash illustrations and settings are meant for elementary school children (failure to get picked for a soccer team, classroom show-and-tell, and jumping rope with friends), all readers from young children to adults will appreciate a boost of encouragement “when your project seems too hard” or “whether you’re happy or blue.”
The heartfelt sentiments of “I believe in your brave spirit,” “your playful heart,” “your great attitude,” and “your awesome skills” are portrayed like tender pats-on-the-back and hugs of support.
One sketch — “when the monsters in your closet are too big for you to fight” — depicts a child snuggled in bed with one of these fearsome creatures from the closet. It’s accompanied by the confirmation, “I believe in your true courage to know it’ll be all right.”
Richmond is known for her greeting cards with pithy themes of hope, courage and love. Her many books tackle social issues of friendship, family relationships and peer understanding. Inspirational messages of encouragement are Richmond’s trademark.
Richmond will be signing her books at The King’s English Bookshop on Oct. 3.
IF YOU GO
What: Marianne Richmond book signing
When: Monday, Oct. 3, 5 p.m.
Where: The King’s English Bookshop, 1511 S. 1500 East, Salt Lake City
Web: KingsEnglish.com
Email: marilousorensen@ymail.com