You Are Brave

You Are Brave written by Margaret O’Hair, illustrated by Sofia Cardoso. Scholastic 2024. PB RRP $26.99. ISBN 9781761528439

Reviewed by Debra Williams

You Are Brave is inspired by the life of Sofia Sanchez. She is now 15 years of age, but this book focuses on her younger life. Sofia has Down’s Syndrome. Abandoned at a Romanian orphanage for the first year of her life, she was adopted by the Sanchez family in California. They have three sons, the youngest of whom also has Down’s Syndrome. 

Sofia hasn’t let anything stop her from becoming a successful model, actress and activist. She even competed in the Special Olympics at 8 years of age.

Beautifully written and illustrated, this book is an encouragement for children everywhere to not be scared or hesitant about trying new things, whatever their situation. It shows children that it’s okay not to be perfect at whatever you want to do, but that everyone is good at something. The main theme inspires youngsters to not give up, to keep practising until they get a new thing right, and to show them they can be brave when they are told they cannot do something. It encourages children to be themselves.

This book is suitable for children 4-8 years of age. It contains two pages at the back of the book called “Sofia’s Bravery Scrapbook,” featuring ten photos showing her at various ages, talking about the things she has done, including raising awareness of Down’s Syndrome Month which is in October.