Author(s): Shinsuke Yoshitake

Picture | Thinking & Feeling | Read our reviews!

From acclaimed author-illustrator Shinsuke Yoshitake comes a humorous picture book about the empowering possibilities of growing up and a child's imagination!

Akira has a problem: He is too small to open packages by himself. He still needs grown-ups to help him.

But one day, perhaps one day soon, he'll be able to open so many things without anyone's help-and not just packages. When that time comes, he'll make amazing discoveries and maybe even save the day with his new skills. There is so much to look forward to!

With humor and wit, acclaimed author-illustrator Shinsuke Yoshitake explores a child's feelings about growing up: the push and pull of relying on parents while striving to learn and do things by oneself. The youngest of readers will relate, while discovering the many ways that they can open up exciting new experiences at this very moment!

STELLA'S REVIEW:
Here, our protagonist, Akira, wonders about growing up — “When I’m big..,” ; is frustrated by having to rely on others — parents; and imagines themselves being super competent! Well, doesn’t everyone? In I Can Open It For You, we have screwed up faces, too tight jars, packages that won’t release their yummy food contents, tantrums and just plain old frustration. When you’re too little to manage, you have to ask for help. But when you grow up, you’ll be running about in demand: open this, that and everything else. Akira imagines all the things he will be able to open — jars, packets, houses, the earth, purses, suitcases, bottles and animal cages — when he’s bigger. Luckily, while he’s small, there’s always someone to help and show Akira all the wonderful ways to open boxes, packets, windows to views and a box with a new pet. A book about growing up, being open to new experiences and finding out together. Funny, thoughtful and enjoyable for small children who will instantly relate to Akira’s dilemma, and enjoy the experience of opening a book together.
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"Another lucidly conceived flight of imagination...[a] humorous small-scale superhero adventure about personal autonomy and growing up." -- Publishers Weekly, starred review

"Cozy, droll, perfect." -- Kirkus Starred Review

"This quirky, inspiring book teaches children that they can do anything as they grow up. Yoshitake has great sense for kid-friendly comedy." -- School Library Journal

"Young readers will empathize with his dilemma as they witness one of the frustrations of being small." -- Booklist, starred review