Yes! This was delivered to me today, so I could read it just before the end of the year.
In this instalment, the message is about the meaning of bravery. It is about how to get there, and how to nurture and preserve it within you, no matter what you do. It is about the right mindset. Developing courage and bravery may take a while, or a long time.
'The Boldest White' talks about being part of a community, or two or more, and standing out in that community to help others. To be an inspiration. A leader. A gamechanger. A trailblazer. To be your own awesome self for others to see and be proud of, for who you are, and what you, and subsequently your peers, can achieve.
It is nothing to be afraid of. Matter not what is expected of you, and try not to let the fear of embarrassment and disappointing people bring you down and make you small; be yourself, trust in your own abilities, and try your best, as you want to be, for yourself and what others need.
'The Boldest White' is about fencing, and religion, family, friendship, determination, believing in yourself, support, and love. Bravery, community, personal growth, and standing out and leading on are the main themes to take away from the picture book.
I love the fencing imagery and lessons, too. They go exceptionally well with the other, charming colours, in bold, striking prominence.
It is not as strong as the previous two instalments, in my opinion. It seems a little... tentative, compared to them (ironic given its title). I feel 'The Boldest White' needed a clearer message about being an individual, being your own free self, amongst your community and the people you love and who love you unconditionally (there needs to be a stated distinction between community and conformity). The ending is not a real ending; it is abrupt and ambiguous, which is as much as I can say without spoiling anything.
However, as it is and how it presents itself, I reiterate: 'The Boldest White', like its predecessors, is lovely. I adore the family in these books, largely based on and inspired by Ibtihaj Muhammad's own family. They feel like real people, and they are everlastingly kind and warm, and loving and supportive to one another. They are each others' rock to lean on, at any time.
It is not just the hijab that connects them, though that is an important part of them and their identities.
The family, and the 'A Story of Hijab' series as a whole, are beyond heartwarming and life-affirming.
A beautiful series for all ages, containing important messages for our times.
'Bravery grows in your mind.
But its roots are in your heart.
Water the roots for the right reasons,
and bravery will grow bold.'
'[...] sometimes you want to be part of the crowd.
But sometimes you need to stand out boldly.
[...]
To grow.
To help.
To lead.
[...]
And I'm ready to be bold.'
A rising star of a book.
Read also my reviews of 'The Proudest Blue: A Story of Hijab and Family' and 'The Kindest Red: A Story of Hijab and Friendship'
Final Score: 3.5/5
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