#BOOKREVIEW 25
CHILDREN’S PICTURE BOOK REVIEW AS A WRITER AND A READER
Title: Get Up, Stand Up
Author: Cedella Marley
Illustrator: John Jay Cabuay
Genre: Children’s Picture Book
Target Reader: 5 -10 years
The story Get Up, Stand Up is based on the song by Bob Marley and is adapted by Cedella Marley. Bob was Cedella Marley’s father and a singer, songwriter and guitarist. The book addresses issues of bullying and teasing. It highlights and suggests being kind and compassionate. The text is simple yet rhythmic, making it perfect for reading aloud.
John Jay Cabuay’s colorful illustrations burst with energy, depicting a diverse group of children who learn to face bullying, exclusion, and injustice with courage and compassion. The art captures the warmth and positivity of Marley’s music, reinforcing the book’s universal themes of empowerment, love, and unity.
The moment I read the first line, “When you meet someone talking big and thinking small,” a child came to my mind. He would always say things to show that he was the smartest kid and others didn’t know anything. He didn’t realise that his attitude was rude and disrespectful to other kids. Many times, I felt that children needed to get up and stand for their rights instead of feeling sad or crying. In situations like these, this book helps open discussions and gives opportunity to reflect.
The book encourages focusing on oneself instead of trying to correct others. The emphasis is on making the right choices and taking right actions. Lines like ‘Remember to be true, the best of yourself. Then you’ll be friend to everybody else” suggest that the need to change others diminishes when we work on improving ourselves.
With social media bullying increasing and many kids suffering silently, books like these are a good resource for parents and teachers to discuss complex topics. It helps children to open and present their concerns. It gives them the opportunity to see other kids facing similar challenges and sharing any incidents that might be bothering them.
Get Up, Stand Up is more than a simple adaptation of a song. It is a meaningful tool for teaching resilience, empathy, and self-respect. Through its rhythmic language, vibrant illustrations, and universal message, the book encourages children to rise above negativity and stay true to themselves, making it a valuable addition to both classroom and home libraries.
I am an author, teacher, and holistic wellness coach with a deep passion for children’s growth and self-worth. Reviewing children’s books inspired me to write my own picture book, Stand Up for Yourself: Brando Tells Dory.
The story reflects my belief that every child deserves acceptance—not only from others but also from within. Through Dory’s journey of finding her voice and Brando’s support, young readers learn that standing up for themselves and asking for help are powerful acts of self-respect.
At its heart, my work reminds children—and adults alike—that every voice matters, and every child has the right to say, “I matter.”
Click here to get a copy for your child
About A New You:
We all deserve to have everything in our life exactly the way we want it.The first step begins with believing that every moment is bringing an opportunity to be a new you. As a founder, I provide tools to elevate all dimensions of your life and I teach you the art of writing to reach to your true potential.
Vandana Sehgal | Founder – A New You
