Me and Mama by Cozbi Cabrera, centers on the special relationship between a young girl and her mother. Starting with the morning “when the house smells like cinnamon” and the papa and little brother are still asleep, a little girl wants to be “everywhere mama is”. “Good morning to you” – her mama sings, as the little girl walks down the stairs. We watch as she moves through the day with her mama – looking out at the rainy day, drinking out of cups that go “clink, clink”, eating oatmeal with berries (her Mama’s favorite) or bananas (the little girl’s favorite), and thinking about their matching silver dresses.
The illustrations are warm, inviting, and so cozy. The pictures are rendered with acrylic paints and flow in and around each page – and onto the next. The story feels meditative – a peek into one day – and noticing each moment, each detail. It is a wonderful read-aloud for toddlers and children through Grade 1. (Older children might like to read it to remember back to times when they were younger, too – or, to feel the story’s sense of warmth and safety.)
For other great picture books about special family relationships, check out these books from a variety of authors: A Chair for My Mother, My Dadima Wears a Sari, Jabari Jumps, Drawn Together, A Big Mooncake for Little Star, and A Different Pond.