You Can Do It!

Poor Linden! His siblings seem to recognize their talents and know what they want to do with those skills. They act confident and successful. But Linden struggles to do anything well!

You Can Do It!, written by Super-Bowl winning coach and bestselling author Tony Dungy, is a story about faith and dreams. Through laughter, prayer, and example, Linden is encouraged by his family (especially his brother Tony and his father) to keep searching for his talent. While dealing with Linden’s frustration, the story portrays great family dynamics of support and love. Several heartwarming conversations take place, ripe with words of wisdom. Here is an example: “Whatever it is you want to do, you can do it. Trust God and dream big.”

Toward the end of the story, Linden talks about trying to figure out his “it”. Dungy explains that “Your it is what you love to do and its something God has given you the talent to do. That’s what makes us special.” Linden’s father reassures Linden that it may take many years for him to discover his “it”, and that’s perfectly okay.

Finally, Linden visits the dentist. He becomes fascinated by the job and the fact that dentists help people. To his surprise and obvious pleasure, he realizes he has discovered his passion …dentistry!

The detailed watercolor illustrations, done by Amy June Bates, add a warm and inviting touch to the story. Bates gives the characters wonderfully expressive faces.

The book also has an afterword from Coach Dungy. In it, Dungy talks about how his own parents taught him to dream, pray, and have trust in God.

What I Like: The illustrations were beautifully done and made a perfect mate for the text. The nuggets of timeless wisdom embedded in the story will inspire adults as well as children. Football fans may be drawn to the story because of the famous author.

What I Dislike: The story was a tad long-winded.

Overall Rating: Excellent

Age Appeal: Ages 4-8

Publisher Info: Little Simon Inspirations, 2008; ISBN: 978-1416954613; Hardcover, 32 PGS., $16.99.

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Special Info: Watch a YouTube video interview of Tony Dungy as he talks about the book You Can Do It!