Action Jasmine

PreS-Gr 3–Readers meet Jasmine, a girl who has big ideas for action and mystery but finds it easier to work in the shadows. Her grandfather notices her reticence and suggests that she go incognito to the park. At the park, Jasmine finds lots of rescues to perform and villains to thwart. As her grandpa goes for a little break, Jasmine sees a fellow hero and finds the courage to ask him to play. The story shows the internal struggle of a child who is hesitant to join in, feels invisible, and longs for adventure. The superhero‐alter‐ego device is a clever way to help children see that bravery often means just starting. For librarians looking to support early readers or emerging readers with SEL themes, this is a fine choice. The pastel colored artwork perfectly captures Jasmine’s energy and shyness and desire to do good things.