No!: My First Book of Protest

by Julie Merberg, Molly Egan (Illustrations)

Little ones who love to say "No!" can chime in while they learn about iconic activists from Frederick Douglass and Alice Paul to Martin Luther King Jr. and Malala.

Each spread introduces an iconic figure—such as Gloria Steinem or Cesar Chavez—along with a super simple summary of the actions they took to change the course of history. Activists of all ages will learn about the abolitionist movement, civil rights, women's rights, and more! Detailed, colorful art will thoroughly engage toddlers and preschoolers. And the chance to join the refrain on every spread "NO, NO!" is sure to please the tiniest protestors. (A mini history of protest movements at the end of the books is a handy cheat sheet for parents!)

Genres: Childrens, Picture Books

22 pages, Board Book

Published March 24, 2020

Reviews

[Julie Mesquita · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am still 4 years old so mommy had to explain what it is to vote, what was segregation, and the patriarchal society. I didn't understand it yet, but I am a pro at saying NO! So I like the book. Mommy had a hard time though. And she said it is ok if I don't understand it yet because many adults don't understand them either and the important thing is to never give up learning about those things. OK!

[Jacquelyn Coronado · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love this book because it highlights activists throughout modern history. The ending was a little bit weak when it tells kids to say “ok, ok” to their parents until they grow up.

[Cheyenne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book does an amazing job at including historical figures in history while using age appropriate language. Important moments in history such as Rosa Parks refusing to give up her seat on a bus, Judith Heumann speaking out for disability rights in education, and many more are provided in this book. This book also provides an example for what it means to speak up against something that is unjust or unfair, and it gives ways that children can do this by saying no and using their voice. This book is a prime example of inclusivity because it explains to children that their voice is powerful. It also introduces new possibilities for children to really learn about who they are and the social world they live in.

[Emily Myhren · Rating 4 out of 5]

A excellent overview of historical protests for young kids but the ending was eh.

[Susan Grebe · Rating 1 out of 5]

I am confused by this book and think it's age inappropriate. It's a board book listed as being for babies and young children up to 3 years old. It's a lovely book and I have NO problem with the content, EXCEPT that the concepts and people described throughout the book can't possibly be understood by a 3-year old. Gloria Steinem? Alice Paul? Rosa Parks? The only thing kids this age can understand is that these were people who said, NO NO, and fought against what they were being told. I'm not sure that that's the message we want to give to 2 year olds. "Don't touch the hot stove!" and the child says, "NO NO, I have a right!"

[Cara Byrne · Rating 3 out of 5]

A board book that offers more to the adult reading it than the baby

[Poppy Thorpe · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent book which teaches children how to make a difference in the world!

[Ali · Rating 4 out of 5]

A nice book of protest examples nominally for babies but my toddler liked it too. Good examples overall.

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent!