I Forgive Alex: A Simple Story about Understanding, written and illustrated by Kerascoet. Random House Studio, Penguin Random House. 2022. $23.99 ages 4 and up

 

"Here is a simple yet meaningful story 
that explores the complicated 
feelings that come with apologies 
and forgiveness."

If you read I Walk with Vanessa and you liked it as much as I did, you will be pleased to see that a second wordless book by this husband-and-wife team is on bookshelves now. It is another book about schoolchildren and their capacity for empathy and understanding. School yards are familiar with 'scraps' and small conflicts that may not seem so small for the children involved. 

The opening page shows children interacting with one another at the recess break. Two boys hold sway for very different reasons. One carries a red backpack and sports a jacket, t-shirt and long pants; the other is dressed in a red and blue uniform and is happily holding a basketball. Each attracts a group of children. The boy with the backpack shares portfolio pictures that he has drawn. The other is chased by kids wanting him to share his basketball. He likes to keep it for himself. 

When the basketball player throws the ball over the heads of those wanting to play, it lands on the artwork being admired, and splashes water all over the drawings. Readers can see that the ball player is upset, but holding back. They can also see many annoyed faces looking directly at him. Others quickly support the artist with sympathetic looks and support. As the athlete approaches, he shows embarrassment. At that very moment, the recess bell rings and the children go inside. 

Feelings remain clear for the rest of the school day. The ball player is left out. No one goes near him at second recess. From the midst of the recess crowd, the artist moves toward him. They talk together, shake hands, and move on. It takes one person! 

 No adults. This book is an endearing look at what it takes to admit a mistake, and offer forgiveness. It takes both bravery and compassion. Kids have both in spades if we let them show it. There is much to see in the faces of the children portrayed here. 

Suggestions for dealing with hurt are appended for both children and adults.