Ish

Reach for this book when your child's inner critic silences their creativity, making them feel like nothing they create is 'right'. Ramon loves to draw, but a careless comment from his older brother makes him feel his art is all wrong. He crumples up his drawings in frustration, convinced he can no longer draw. That is, until his younger sister reveals she has been collecting his 'mistakes', celebrating them as wonderfully 'ish' creations. Her perspective helps Ramon see that 'ish' thinking, or embracing imperfection, is a joyful and freeing way to be creative. This gentle story for ages 4 to 8 is a perfect antidote to perfectionism. It beautifully illustrates themes of self-confidence, resilience, and the power of a sibling's love. It opens up conversations about how we talk about our own work and the work of others, providing comfort and a new vocabulary ('ish') for any child who fears they are not good enough.