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197 reviews for:

Jabari Jumps

Gaia Cornwall

4.35 AVERAGE


IB learner profile trait: risk taker (iykyk)

I loved the illustrations in this book, and I could certainly relate, having my own little man who is eager to be an independent swimmer, but I felt like something was missing. Perhaps I thought it would be funnier, or maybe I was hoping for something more profound, but maybe it's okay that the message is conquering your fears and finding the surprising joy that comes with it? Either way, little man and I enjoyed this summer read!

Fun book. I loved it!

I‰ЫЄm not used to suspense in kids books. But since it was a short book, it was over quickly.

I was impressed how the author built suspense - even for an adult. And I liked how this was a great metaphor for anyone trying to do something they‰ЫЄre afraid of.
inspiring lighthearted fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

Gorgeous, diverse illustrations accompany this sweet story about a little guy named Jabari who has finished his swimming lessons and is going to jump off the diving board. He's not scared, he just forgot to do his stretches. Um, he needs to take a little rest and think about what kind of magnificent jump he wants to do. Um, um, um... Will Jabari be brave? Can Jabari's dad help him find his courage? What is courage anyway?

A wonderful one-on-one read, or a fabulous group read aloud about feelings, swimming, summer, courage, or perseverance.

I love books that familiarize children with new events and experiences; this book is no exception! Jabari Jumps is a short but sweet tale of a boy named Jabari who, after completing swimming lessons, wants to jump off the diving board like the rest of the kids at the pool. His Dad is there to encourage and support (but not push or rush him) and Jabari conquers his fear and makes the jump!

A sweet tale of overcoming your fears

★★★★☆ Friendly, inviting illustrations. Nice color palette. Excellent story about confronting fears, while not being preachy at all. I enjoyed it. My one complaint is that the ladder was inconsistently drawn. Sometimes massively tall, sometimes a little overhead, the rung count changed from page to page. If the ladder was supposed to reflect how Jabari perceived it, I don't feel the effect came across as planned. However, the best illustration was where it counted the most. Jabari's toes hanging over a pool that seemed hundreds of feet away had a great emotional impact. I could sense the height. It was a very effective and powerful illustration despite its simplicity. This was an excellent picture book. I'm going to bet my daughter will like this one.