US Poet Laureate Joy Harjo’s iconic poem “Remember,”
illustrated by Caldecott Medalist Michaela Goade, invites young
readers to pause and reflect on the wonder of the world around them,
and to remember the importance of their place in it.
Remember the sky you were born under,
Know each of the star’s stories.
Remember the moon, know who she is.
Remember the sun’s birth at dawn,
That is the strongest point of time.
So begins the picture book adaptation of the renowned poem that
encourages young readers to reflect on family, nature, and their
heritage. In simple and direct language, Harjo, a member of the
Mvskoke Nation, urges readers to pay close attention to who they are,
the world they were born into, and how all inhabitants on earth are
connected. Michaela Goade, drawing from her Tlingit culture, has
created vivid illustrations that make the words come alive in an
engaging and accessible way.
This timeless poem paired with magnificent paintings makes for a
picture book that is a true celebration of life and our human role
within it.