Walk On: A Guide for Babies of All Ages
by Marla Frazee
Harcourt Children's Books, 2006.
ISBN: 0152055738
My rating: 
It is time to learn how to walk.
The first thing you've got to do is stand on your own two feet.
It sounds easier than it is.
You will need support. This is tricky because sometimes what you think will support you won't.
--Walk On: A Guide for Babies of All Ages, Marla Frazee, p. 2-6.
Walk On encourages the reader to learn to stand on their own two feet, get support, find your balance, let go, and if you fall, cry and get it out, then try again and walk without obstacles in your way. This is not so much a story as a cheerleading talk for both walking and living your life.
The cleverly-written text that can be taken both literally—for babies just learning to walk and toddlers that already have—and metaphorically, for everyone who's had to deal with any situation that makes you feel anxious or fearful. ("Find your balance./It may take some time./Remember to breathe./Feel the sway, but don't let it tip you over./When you think you've got it . . . let go!") Older readers will enjoy the dual meanings.
Cartoon-like pencil-and-gouache illustrations depict a baby that can be taken as either a Caucasian girl or boy, depending on the reader. The baby is in full-color, while the objects around her are often pencil with white paper, or a few colors, which emphasizes the baby, and the baby's expressions show clear emotion. Colors are gentle, almost pastel, which can feel soothing.
The illustrations fit with the literal meanings of the text, which can make the book work for young children, but the text has another layer of meaning that older children and adults may find comfort and encouragement in.
The text and illustrations work well together, and the message is patient, encouraging, and wise. Recommended.
-Added Nov 2006
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