📘 BIG
Words and Illustrations by Vashti Harrison
Genre/Category: Picture Book / Self-Acceptance / Caldecott Winner
Target Age Group: Ages 4–8
Format Read: Physical Copy
🌀 Plot Summary (1–2 Sentences)
A little girl starts off life with a big laugh, a big heart, and big dreams, and that’s celebrated, until the word “big” becomes a way others criticize and shame her. Hurtful words take a toll, but through her journey of self-acceptance, she finds her voice and learns to embrace her full self again.
✅ Why I Chose This Book
I chose Big because it was a Caldecott Medal winner, and after reading it, I completely understand why. It’s probably the number one book I’ve seen constantly being checked out and returned this past year. I also chose this book because I personally relate to it, growing up as a big girl, I really wanted to read something that reflected that experience. It felt personal, and I'm glad I gave it a chance.
🔍 Evaluation
1. Illustrations
Vashti Harrison’s illustrations are stunning and filled with emotional depth. The color palette evolves with the girl's journey—starting in soft pink hues that reflect her joy and carefree spirit, then shifting into darker grays and blacks as she faces shame and isolation. Toward the end, the colors brighten again, showing her return to self-love. One particularly powerful moment is the fold-out spread, which physically expands the book to emphasize how she breaks free from the negativity surrounding her. I also loved the clever use of space, especially how she grows from a small figure tucked into one page corner to filling an entire two-page spread. The front cover itself is symbolic—she’s literally holding up the giant “BIG” letters, a powerful statement of strength and identity.
2. Style and Language
The text is minimal but purposeful, each word chosen with care. Harrison lets the art and the silence between words speak volumes, using repetition and contrast to highlight the shifting meanings of “big.” It’s a great example of how a picture book can use limited text to say something incredibly powerful. The cadence of the words invites young readers to slow down and reflect, and the simplicity allows space for big emotions.
3. Theme
The book sends a strong, empowering message about self-worth, speaking out, and reclaiming identity. It encourages children to stand up for themselves and love who they are—especially when others try to define them with harmful labels. I appreciated that she sticks to wearing pink in the end, challenging the common idea that bigger people should wear dark, muted colors. It’s a quiet but bold declaration that joy and brightness are for everyone, no matter their size. This book doesn’t just promote body positivity—it encourages emotional resilience and strength in the face of unkindness.
📚 Reference
Harrison, V. (2023). Big. Little, Brown Books for Young Readers.