Jabari Jumps

The visual details — the way the little sister’s tiny hand grips her father’s back while her father holds her brother’s hand — give the book its heart.

There are plenty of picture books reassuring kids who don’t quite achieve their own goals when they want to, but here Cornwall celebrates success earned through overcoming fears and through reliance on the supportive presence of a loving parent.

Jabari’s story will help assuage the fears kids experience when faced with a new and daunting adventure.

In her debut, Cornwall places her loving black family at the center, coloring the swimming pool and park beyond in minty hues and adding whimsy with digitally collaged newspaper for skyscrapers.

Against a backdrop of warm brown skin tones and cool aqua water, debut author-illustrator Cornwell presents an empowering and celebratory story. Young readers will root for Jabari as he prepares to take a leap of faith.

Anyone who has hesitated on the brink of something daunting — a brave act or a big decision — will feel a rush of kinship with the small protagonist of Gaia Cornwall’s picture book 'Jabari Jumps'.

A little boy has finished his swimming lessons and is trying to get up the courage to jump off the diving board in this utterly charming debut picture book with a valuable lesson about conquering your fears from a gifted author-illustrator.

Gaia Cornwallis an illustrator who loves making patterns for surface design. Her work can be seen in magazines, in logos, on various products, and even in movies. 'Jabari Jumps' is her first picture book. She lives in Providence, Rhode Island.