Vanessa is alone for much of her first day at a new school. But on the way home a boy begins yelling at her. Another girl sees what takes place, which includes Vanessa running home in tears. Throughout the evening the girl who witnessed what happened is clearly upset. The next morning, she goes to Vanessa’s house to walk to school with her. One by one, other kids join them, until it seems the entire school—with one exception—has decided to walk with Vanessa. It’s easy to follow the main arc of the action in this purposeful wordless picture book, but there is still space for readers and listeners to think and talk about how various characters might be feeling and what is happening on each page spread, and to consider what they might do in a similar situation. Information about bullying for children and adults is included at volume’s end. There are engaging details in ink-and-watercolor illustrations that show a diverse cast of characters, including brown-skinned, curly-haired Vanessa and the brown- skinned, straight-haired girl who can’t stop thinking about her. All are rendered in a friendly, squat style. (Ages 5–8)

This simple yet powerful picture book--from a New York Times bestselling husband-and-wife team--tells the story of one girl who inspires a community to stand up to bullying. The perfect back-to-school read for every kid, family and classroom!

Don't miss the companion book, I Forgive Alex, about the importance of compassion and forgiveness.

Inspired by real events, I Walk with Vanessa explores the feelings of helplessness and anger that arise in the wake of seeing a classmate treated badly, and shows how a single act of kindness can lead to an entire community joining in to help. By choosing only pictures to tell their story, the creators underscore the idea that someone can be an ally without having to say a word. With themes of acceptance, kindness, and strength in numbers, this timeless and profound feel-good story will resonate with readers young and old.

A New York Public Library Best Book of the Year

"This beautifully illustrated story shows young readers how to become caring and supportive upstanders. Love it!" --Trudy Ludwig, bestselling author of The Invisible Boy