Book Review: I Promise by LeBron James, Illustrated Nina Mata

Genre: Picture Book
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Recommend to Others?: Yes

ABOUT: NBA champion and superstar LeBron James pens a slam-dunk picture book inspired by his foundation’s I PROMISE program that motivates children everywhere to always #StriveForGreatness.

Just a kid from Akron, Ohio, who is dedicated to uplifting youth everywhere, LeBron James knows the key to a better future is to excel in school, do your best, and keep your family close.

I Promise is a lively and inspiring picture book that reminds us that tomorrow’s success starts with the promises we make to ourselves and our community today.

Featuring James’s upbeat, rhyming text and vibrant illustrations perfectly crafted for a diverse audience by New York Times bestselling artist Nina Mata, this book has the power to inspire all children and families to be their best.

My Review: First off, I love the cover! It’s so colorful and inviting – it has all the hallmarks of a cover buy.

Second, I really loved this book! The rhyming couplets paired nicely with the narrative and helped make the story engaging. I Promise is very optimistic. The promises within touch upon various life challenges kids may face and how to overcome them better and stronger than before. The book is an encouraging reminder to kids they have the power to persevere, be happy, be a good person, to always try, to turn failures into opportunities, succeed, and more. Essentially, a how-to to strive for greatness.

I love the bright, colorful illustrations were great. The kids in the story are so cute and happy. You can’t help but smile too as the story uplifts you with each promise being made.

I Promise is a great story; perfect for back to school and classroom/personal libraries. I highly recommend this book for everyone because the life-long promises in this book are things to always remember.