The Yes (by Sarah Bee)

2/5 = OK

Little Fox says, "At the beginning, [the illustration is] all smeared and stuff..."

Momma: Do you know what this book was about?

Fox: No.

Momma: I think it's about all the Nos in your head...the stuff you say to yourself when you're about to try something new because new things can be scary.  All of the little Nos tried to stop the big Yes from going places and trying things. Do you remember something new you did that was scary?

Fox: Swimming.

Momma: What were the No things you heard in your head?  The things that told you not to try?

Fox: It was too deep...I would drown...I was too nervous to jump.

Momma: Did you eventually jump?

Fox: Yes.

Momma: Exactly.  There are all these Nos that try to stop you but all you need is one big Yes. Anything else that you were afraid to try?  How about play dates?  What sorts of Nos did you hear?

Fox:  That I couldn't do it...it was too hard.

Momma: Did you eventually do it?

Fox: Yes.

Momma: And do you like it now?

Fox: Yes!  If [The Yes] said no, he wouldn't have been on any adventures.

Momma: That's right!  I think this is a great book for older kids.  It would be a good book to give someone for graduation because it's about forging ahead despite the Nos and finding your own way.