Amy Krouse Rosenthal’s The OK Book is a whimsical and gently uplifting picture book that delivers an empowering message about being comfortable with mediocrity and trying new things. In a world often driven by perfectionism and success, The OK Book stands out by celebrating the notion that it’s perfectly fine to be “just OK” at many things. Rosenthal’s simple yet profound storytelling, paired with Tom Lichtenheld’s playful illustrations, makes this book an enjoyable and thoughtful read for young children.
The protagonist of the story is a little stick figure character named “OK,” who goes about life enthusiastically trying out different activities—climbing, running, swimming, and more—without necessarily excelling at any of them. He’s not particularly fast, strong, or skilled, but he’s okay at everything he attempts, and that’s enough for him. The book’s charm lies in this central theme of contentment and self-acceptance, conveyed in a humorous, lighthearted way that makes it accessible for young readers.
Rosenthal’s text is minimalistic, but that’s part of its charm. The simple language makes the story easy for children to follow while allowing the illustrations to take center stage. The words themselves are infused with a gentle humor, as OK ventures into various activities, sometimes with amusing results. Whether he’s flying a kite that doesn’t soar very high or attempting to juggle with moderate success, OK is undeterred, content with the idea that trying is what counts. This easygoing attitude models resilience and encourages children to have a growth mindset—that effort and enjoyment are more important than perfect outcomes.
The artwork by Tom Lichtenheld is a perfect complement to Rosenthal’s message. His bright, expressive illustrations bring OK’s journey to life in a fun and engaging way. The little stick figure, drawn with just enough expression to make him endearing, traverses bold and colorful landscapes filled with playful, exaggerated details. The simplicity of OK’s character design contrasts nicely with the more detailed environments, creating a visually appealing experience that keeps young readers engaged.
One of the strengths of The OK Book is the way it normalizes imperfection in a lighthearted, non-preachy manner. The book’s humor and cheerful tone help soften the message that it’s okay not to be great at everything, a lesson that resonates with both children and adults alike. For young readers, who are often navigating their own journeys of discovery and self-confidence, this is a refreshing reminder that trying new things can be its own reward. The book subtly encourages children to take risks, explore their interests, and be comfortable with where they are, no matter the result.
Moreover, The OK Book doesn’t focus on failure, nor does it glorify success. Instead, it takes a middle ground, emphasizing that being “okay” is perfectly fine and often enough. This mindset fosters a positive attitude toward self-exploration and learning, which is particularly valuable in a society that often emphasizes competition and excellence.
Another key aspect of the book is its universality. The simplicity of both the character and the message makes The OK Book relatable to a wide range of readers. Whether a child is struggling to learn a new skill, such as riding a bike or playing a sport, or simply learning to accept that they don’t have to be the best at everything, The OK Book provides gentle reassurance. It’s also a great read for parents and educators who want to instill the value of perseverance and self-acceptance in children without pressuring them to strive for constant perfection.
While the book’s minimalistic approach is one of its strengths, it may leave some readers wanting more depth in terms of plot or character development. The narrative is straightforward and stays true to its core message, which might feel too simplistic for older children looking for a more complex storyline. However, for younger readers, especially those just starting to encounter the pressures of performance, the simplicity works well to convey its message effectively.
The OK Book is a delightful, feel-good picture book that gently reminds readers that it’s perfectly fine to be average or “okay” at things, as long as they’re willing to try. Amy Krouse Rosenthal’s simple, humorous text, combined with Tom Lichtenheld’s cheerful illustrations, creates a reading experience that is both fun and meaningful. Whether used as a bedtime story or as a tool for building self-esteem, The OK Book offers a valuable lesson in self-acceptance and the joy of trying new things. It’s a lighthearted, reassuring book that will leave children feeling encouraged to embrace their own abilities—however “okay” they may be.
Questions to ask while reading:
- What are some of the activities OK tries in the book?
- How does OK feel about being “just OK” at things?
- What is the message of the book, and how does it make you feel?
The OK Book on Amazon
More books by Amy Krouse Rosenthal and Tom Lichtenheld:
More books by Tom Lichtenheld:
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