Common Sense Media Review
By Diondra K. Brown
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
One small act makes a huge impact in poetic picture book.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 4+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
SOMETHING, SOMEDAY shares the poetic story of a little boy who observes litter and trash impacting the quality and appearance of his community. Even though he's discouraged from solving the problem, because it's too big to fix, he decides to make a change. Instead of staying sad and angry, he becomes hopeful and finds friends who believe in his dream. They make a promise to each other to fix the problem, because together they're bigger than any problem they may face. The little boy's dream becomes a reality, as he brings people together, at the beautiful community garden. His small action inspires others and creates impactful change.
Is It Any Good?
This is a powerful and uplifting picture book that will inspire readers of all ages to spread good acts in the world around them. Something, Someday spotlights the talents of both author and poet Amanda Gorman and illustrator Christian Robinson. The book's text is a simple, yet dynamic, poem that young readers will be able to understand and connect with. The illustrations combine collages with hand-drawings, to create unique and multi-layered art.
In a world where the problems around us can feel too big to fix or too painful to face, this book reminds us that small actions can create large impacts. The book's diverse characters come together to show care for their community, putting aside their own needs and priorities for the greater good. It's powerful that the inspiration for change is a young Black boy, who ignores doubt and discouragement. Readers will remember to remain hopeful about the beauty that tomorrow may bring.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how the main character in Something, Someday sees an issue in his neighborhood and creates change. What's an issue in your neighborhood that you'd like to change?
What's your favorite illustration in the book? Why? What does the picture mean to you?
The main character in the book creates a community garden. Do you have a garden at your house or in your neighborhood? What's your favorite thing that grows there? If not, what would you plant if you had your own garden?
Why is compassion an important part of this book? Why is it important to have compassion?
Book Details
- Author: Amanda Gorman
- Illustrator: Christian Robinson
- Genre: Picture Book
- Topics: Activism , Great Boy Role Models
- Character Strengths: Compassion
- Book type: Fiction
- Publisher: Viking Books for Young Readers
- Publication date: September 26, 2023
- Publisher's recommended age(s): 4 - 8
- Number of pages: 40
- Available on: Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, iBooks, Kindle
- Award: Common Sense Selection
- Last updated: September 23, 2023
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.
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