I Am Because We Are - by Allison Matulli (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

Grounded in African Ubuntu philosophy, this lyrical picture book celebrates community and invites readers to lift up our neighbors.

For fans for ALL THE WORLD and ALL ARE WELCOME comes a new classic that celebrates community.

Your joy is my joy.
My freedom is your freedom.

Me.
You.
We.
All of us!

That is community.
This is ubuntu.

This rhythmic story follows one child as they dream, perform, and celebrate at the heart of their community.

Review Quotes

Gr 1-4-Ubuntu translates to "humanness" and encompasses a philosophy borrowed from the Nguni people who live across the southern nations of Africa. The author uses the understood meaning of "I am because we are" to share the story of a young girl who knows she is loved and appreciated for who she is and how valuable she is to her community as she participates in a performance with her friends. The freedom that comes from Ubuntu allows the girl to dream her dreams, allows her friends the freedom "to be called "he," "she," "they," or "ze," to best capture their identities as "your freedom and mine are one and the same" and together they create a wonderful event followed by a communal feast. Digital illustrations glow and capture the power of community. Simple text makes it clear to readers that there is one human community and that when one cares for others and embraces the shared human experience, everyone is lifted up and becomes part of something strong and unifying. VERDICT A concept that might seem complex at first glance is rendered accessible for readers young and old, and this title featuring a diverse cast of characters will be a welcome addition to classrooms and libraries alike.-John Scott (School Library Journal, April 1, 2025)

About the Author

Allison Matulli is an author, educator, lawyer, and Global Fulbright Scholar as well as the founder of The Little Lawyers--an organization that empowers children to understand their rights and responsibilities in their community. She is the author of Your Freedom, Your Power: A Kid's Guide to the First Amendment, and she speaks and consults worldwide on issues of kids' rights, global citizenship, and inclusionto educators and students alike. She lives in Florida with her family. Learn more at www.AllisonMatulli.com.

Talia Skyles is a Baltimore-based illustrator and painter. She is currently working towards her BFA in general fine arts and illustration at the Maryland Institute College of Art. When not at her drawing table, Talia enjoys reading fantasy novels, hiking with friends, and making her own candles.