Review by Sophia Thomson
Tundra Books
PUB date: April 15, 2025, Picture book, 40 pages
ISBN: 9781774881606
Price: CAN $24.99
Ages/grades of target audience: ages 3-7
Genre: children’s fiction
In her rush to fit in and please the people around her, Amoya had stopped looking up to those who stood tall.
“What happened to you?” She asked herself too, missing the Amoya she’d left behind.
Sometimes we just need a little reminder of how truly brilliant we are to keep shining.
In her debut picture book, Chantaie Allick introduces the wonderfully colourful, bold and inspiring Amoya Blackwood Is Brave. As children, we march to the beat of our own drum, carrying a confidence that can sometimes fade as we grow up. This story explores that first moment when someone dims your light and the impact of the experience.
With vibrant illustrations by the fantastically talented Aaron Marin, we follow Amoya, a carefree, spirited child who proudly uses her voice and isn’t afraid to take up space. She’s confident and cool; she thrives with her friends, at school, and when she’s alone. But one day, something shifts.
When Amoya catches judgemental looks from nearby adults, she begins to shrink, becoming smaller and quieter. As she moulds herself to fit others’ expectations, she starts to lose who she really is.
Thankfully, even in her smallest moments, Amoya has her undeniably cool gran. A fantastic role model and someone who truly sees her, her gran’s strength and love remind Amoya that she can be whoever she wants to be. What Amoya had once forgotten is that the best version is the one who stands tall and bravely dares to be herself.
For anyone who has ever felt small, this story will resonate. For folks who’ve been made to feel judged or less than, Amoya offers a gentle reminder: you deserve to be your truest, fullest self. And for the adults reading – parents, guardians or otherwise – this book might prompt a moment of reflection. Do you still carry the confidence of your younger self? If not, Amoya may just inspire you to find it again.
Marin’s illustrations complement the narrative beautifully. His depiction of Amoya through each emotional beat is rich with feeling. Even when Amoya is curled up against her cat, small as can be, Marin’s bold colours create a sense of comfort that carries throughout the picture book. His style and artistic choices bring Amoya to life and create a whole world that feels so vivid and full of wonder.
Truly a joy to read, Amoya Blackwood Is Brave is an uplifting and affirming read. This lovely picture book serves as a celebration of being seen, being loved, and being exactly who you are.
Sophia Thomson graduated with a BFA in Creative Writing from the University of British Columbia in 2023 and is currently pursuing her Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing. She has a soft spot for stories about love, friendship, and family, which is probably why most of her YA and screenwriting projects end up featuring a mixture of the three.
Want to read more? Chantaie joined us for a Q&A interview that you can check out here!
YOUNG ADULTING 