Review of I'm Not Afraid

[Lisa A Rayburn]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "I'm Not Afraid" by Raya.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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Did you have a basement in your house as a child? Do you remember peering down the darkened stairs, too short to reach the light switch, and shuddering in fear of what…or who…might be down there waiting to get you and gobble you up? In I’m Not Afraid, by Raya, Shelly Fox knows exactly what that feels like.

Shelly’s favorite red ball has bounced down the basement stairs and into the gloom where the monsters live. She tries to retrieve it herself, bravely chanting, “I am not afraid,” as she tiptoes down the first stair…then the second. But by the third stair, she is overwhelmed by fright. Crying, she runs to hide in the living room, still trying to convince herself that she is not afraid. With a little imagination and ingenuity, Shelly’s Dad will teach her that there’s a little superhero inside us all. Will it be enough to help her get her beloved ball back?

There is much to love about this book. The illustrations are (for the most part) bright and cheerful – a surefire way to catch a child’s attention. That said, the illustrator also did a fantastic job of contrasting light and shadows to catch the emotions being felt at any given moment. For example, when Shelly is peering down into the basement, the illustrator uses jagged shadows to indicate her fear. Behind her, where safety lies, is a beautiful, calming blue. The ‘monsters’ lie in shadow with (somewhat hilarious) ‘threatening’ expressions on their fuzzy faces. There is also a wonderful match between the author’s story and the expressions on each main character’s face. Clearly, the author and the illustrator worked closely together.

Honestly, I found little to dislike about this book. I did have the passing thought that some of today’s children, with our focus on technology and flashlights on our phones, might have trouble relating to Shelly’s problem. After all, you can just ask Alexa (or Google) to turn on the light. However, I think the basic message of being afraid of the dark unknown will still resonate with most children today.

Aside from finding two minor errors, there were no problems with the narrative at all. Overall, for the excellent melding of writing and illustration, as well as the underlying message that we all have strength hidden within us, I rate the book a resounding 4 out of 4 stars. Although the book is officially recommended for ages six through ten, I believe that children as young as three would enjoy and learn from the book if it is read with an adult.

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I'm Not Afraid
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[Miriam nkere]

Wow a sweet fun book. There is always a monster at the dark tunnel, what we believed as kids, which remembered now makes me laugh. Interesting review, kids will really enjoy the book because it will kill that fear.

[Krishnajee100]

It reminded me of my childhood and "monsters of the dark" Really sweet story. Your review is very nice. Would recommend this book for my niece.

[mohamed elshemi]

In the past, fear, darkness, and imagination were difficult for children
But now children are not afraid of anything
They have courage and adventure due to the presence of modern technology
Thank you

[Ada Ling]

"Did you have a basement in your house as a child? Do you remember peering down the darkened stairs, too short to reach the light switch, and shuddering in fear of what…or who…might be down there waiting to get you and gobble you up?" Yes, I had that feeling. This is going to be an interesting one. Thank you for the introduction.

[Reader Chavez]

It seems like an interesting and fun book! As someone that was really afraid of the dark as I child, I definitely get the book. Thanks for the great review!

[Emily_Jen]

Will Shelly's dad's be enough to help Shelly get her beloved ball back? I look forward to finding out. Nice review.

[_Shalada_kay]

Amazing! so despite the fear of darkness when we are young its important to know that we can still face darkness with courage to achieve our goals.
Will definitely recommend this to my 3 year old.Nice review

[Edria Dayyinah]

this is very very cutesie!! Tbh, when i first read the summary, i thought to myself, “wow this is really dark for a children’s book” but it turn out to be a very useful for kids in my opinion. It teaches kids to be brave during any scary circumstance.

[Liveyb]

Awesome. Although a dark story at the end kids learn that it's okay to be scared but also to know that you'll get through it and end up stronger and more confident. Love it!

[markodim721]

Good illustrations always make up half a children's book. I think it's great that the book teaches children important life lessons.

[Mbrooks2518]

This sounds like a really cute book. Great review!

[Mayur Arjune]

The foxes are smart, they are cleaver. The don't afraid darkness. The review goes beyond excellent. The stories of foxes are enthusiastic, children will love it.

[Rwill0988]

What a wonderful idea for a children's story. Reminds me a little bit of Franklin is afraid of the dark. Except this way she has to face her fear of the dark instead of finding the solution of the light. I think some children might find it hard to relate. You are right, we live in a world with smart phones and smart houses. At the same time, I think the main message of a the superhero to help face your fears is a good one. Thank you for the informative review.

[Brandy_Nyongesa]

Children have very sharp imaginations that cause their fear. I can relate to this story. Thanks for the great review.