"In southern Africa, there is a belief called ubuntu--the idea that we are all connected. No matter where we're from or who we are, a person is a person through their connections to other people. With simple, lyrical text and charming artwork, this lively picture book first published in South Africa is the perfect introduction to the concept of ubuntu for young kids. A celebration of friendship and kindness, the book shows children the many ways that we are all one"-- - (Baker & Taylor)

We may be different, but our hearts beat the same.

In southern Africa, there is a belief called ubuntu—the idea that we are all connected. No matter where we’re from or who we are, a person is a person through their connections to other people. With simple, lyrical text and charming artwork, this lively picture book first published in South Africa is the perfect introduction to the concept of ubuntu for young kids. A celebration of friendship and kindness, the book shows children the many ways that we are all one.

Revised edition: Previously published as We Are One, this edition of I Am You includes editorial revisions.

Booklist Reviews

Ubuntu is a somewhat complex concept to explain to children, but the simple text of this book, originally published in South Africa, is illuminated by illustrations that will make the idea easier to grasp. An author's note traces the word ubuntu to the Nguni language, defining it as "I am, because you are." Throughout, children of varying skin tones interact with one another and with elements of nature to demonstrate the idea. Embracing a tree, a girl becomes part of its larger existence, with birds and a monkey in the branches and rabbits, worms, turtles, and mice burrowing beneath. A child who uses a wheelchair dances with another who does not, and sharing makes everyone feel happy, whether they originally had something to share or not. Listening, laughing, loving, the children readily demonstrate that the collective whole is happier when each individual is valued. The illustrations use settings and images that children will understand, thereby helping them comprehend the messages of to hurt you is to hurt myself and To care for you is to care for myself. Grades K-2. Copyright 2022 Booklist Reviews.

Kirkus Reviews

An African humanist philosophy encourages empathy and compassion for others. In South Africa, the word ubuntu—from the Nguni languages of isiXhosa and isiZulu—refers to a long-held belief system built on the core principle that one is a person only in relation to another person: "I am, because you are." The text of this picture book, written in free verse, employs anaphora to elucidate the concept: "When I look into your eyes, / I see your heart. / I embrace you," and "when I look into your eyes, / I see your beauty. / I love you," and so on. McDonald's bright, colorful, digital illustrations are inviting and show positive connections between children from different backgrounds who have varied life experiences: a Black, able-bodied girl dances with a Caucasian boy who uses a wheelchair; an Indian boy, a Black boy, and a White girl living on different floors of the same apartment building warmly greet each other; four children with different skin tones, one of whom wears a hearing aid, walk on a city sidewalk, all sporting matching blue shirts and sharing an exceedingly long scarf. The book does have less sunny moments: On a spread showing three girls jumping rope together while ignoring another girl, the text explains that when one hurts others, self-harm results. While the concept of ubuntu comes from South Africa, McDonald's visuals could easily translate to any culture or locale. An edifying, unifying picture book that's much needed in these divisive times. (Picture book. 4-8) Copyright Kirkus 2021 Kirkus/BPI Communications. All rights reserved.

School Library Journal Reviews

PreS-Gr 1—Moahloli's work makes for a stunning picture book for young readers and their grown-ups that focuses on our shared sense of community. The book is inspired by the Xhosa and Zulu word "ubuntu," meaning "I am, because you are," according to the publisher's note, and is "a concept of shared humanity, compassion, and oneness." Though the story is a bit didactic, a strong message of kindness and togetherness shines through the sparse text, which is ideal for reading aloud with younger readers and early independent readers. Illustrations feature a plethora of detailed digital drawings of plants, animals, and children of various skin tones and abilities awash in pink. We also see children in a variety of settings and seasons. VERDICTI Am You acknowledges differences children experience in who they are and the environments in which they are raised, but celebrates our shared humanity and the strength in treating other with love and respect. A recommended first purchase.—Monisha Blair, Glasgow M. S., Alexandria, VA