My Brain Is Magic: A Sensory-Seeking Celebration

Animals represent the many modes of a child’s active, “magic” brain in this lively portrayal of a sensory-seeking child written by clinical educator Sooful. “Sometimes my brain is a bee,/ buzzing around the room,” declares a bespectacled protagonist, portrayed with brown skin. Other times, “my brain is a sloth,” communicating to “slowly put on my socks and shoes. And slowly walk to the door.” A lionesque moment inspires loudness, and a fishlike mindset prompts boisterous splash-filled handwashing. When the mind’s sensate “kaleidoscope” overwhelm, the child practices a calming meditation that prompts a “wise owl” state. Peaches and pinks infuse Ladi’s domestic scenes with a warmth that lasts until cool colors arrive with the onset of a “big sleepy whale” slumber—a soothing end to the lively pages that precede. An author’s note concludes. Ages 5–9. (Apr.)