DigeeBooks

Jacqueline Woodson is the 2018-2019 National Ambassador for Young People's Literature

A number one New York Times best seller!

National Book Award winner Jacqueline Woodson has created a poignant, yet heartening book about finding courage to connect, even when you feel scared and alone. 

There will be times when you walk into a room 

and no one there is quite like you. 

There are many reasons to feel different. Maybe it's how you look or talk, or where you're from; maybe it's what you eat, or something just as random. It's not easy to take those first steps into a place where nobody really knows you yet, but somehow you do it.  

Jacqueline Woodson's lyrical prose and warm narration remind us that we all feel like outsiders sometimes - and how brave it is that we go forth anyway. And that sometimes, when we reach out and begin to share our stories, others will be happy to meet us halfway.

(This book is also available in Spanish, as El Día En Que Descubres Quién Eres!) 

In a world of differences, "The Day You Begin" by Jacqueline Woodson is a poignant and heartwarming story that celebrates the power of friendship and the importance of acceptance. With lyrical prose and vivid imagery, Woodson weaves a tale that resonates with readers of all ages, reminding us that it's okay to be different and that our uniqueness makes us special.

The story follows the journey of a young girl named Angelina, who is starting a new school. Filled with trepidation and anxiety, Angelina worries about fitting in and making friends in a place where she feels different. As the first day unfolds, she encounters a series of encounters with classmates who initially seem different from her: a boy who speaks a different language, a girl who wears a hijab, a boy who is teased for his freckles.

Through these interactions, Angelina begins to realize that despite their differences, they all share a common desire: to be accepted and understood. As the day progresses, small gestures of kindness and empathy begin to bridge the gaps between them. A shared love of books leads to a connection between Angelina and the boy who speaks a different language. The girl in the hijab becomes a source of comfort and support, offering words of encouragement. Even the boy with freckles finds a friend in Angelina, who appreciates his unique qualities.

By the end of the day, Angelina has transformed from a timid and insecure girl into a confident and open-hearted individual. She embraces her own uniqueness and learns to celebrate the differences that make her and her classmates special. "The Day You Begin" is a powerful reminder that our differences are what make us beautiful and that true friendship knows no boundaries.

Jacqueline Woodson's storytelling prowess shines in this beautifully crafted book. Her lyrical prose flows effortlessly, creating a tapestry of emotions that readers can easily connect with. The characters are relatable and authentic, each representing a diverse aspect of the human experience. Woodson's message of acceptance and unity is timely and essential, especially in today's world where differences are often seen as divisive.

Whether you're a child or an adult, "The Day You Begin" is a book that will stay with you long after you finish reading it. Its powerful message of acceptance and friendship will inspire you to look beyond differences and embrace the beauty of diversity. So dive into the pages of this heartwarming story and discover the joy of embracing what makes you unique.