Jabari Tries by Gaia Cornwall (review)

Cornwall, Gaia Jabari Tries; written and illus. by Gaia Cornwall. Candlewick, 2020 [32p] Trade ed. ISBN 9781536207163 $16.99 Reviewed from digital galleys Ad 4-8 yrs

Having conquered the high dive in Jabari Jumps (BCCB 05/17), Jabari now undertakes a new challenge—to make a flying machine that will traverse the length of the backyard, once again with his impulse toward independence vying with his need for help and encouragement. His first mechanical and chemically powered designs, end in crashes—entertainingly spectacular for viewers but frustrating for Jabari. Even recalling the patient work of contemporary scientists and engineers (all global figures of color) doesn't do the trick. He grudgingly takes Dad's advice to let little sister Nika, lend a hand, and as listeners will probably expect, she's more helpful than he thought and gets his creative juices flowing again. Even Nika reaches a new milestone of sorts, adjusting her annoying "Me!" to a proud "We!" Fans of Jabari's debut picture book may be a bit let down here; the backyard, though an inviting setting, doesn't boast the pleasing aquatic hues, and Dad, busy with yard work, is far less subtle in his encouragement. Even references to stellar innovators Lewis Howard Latimer, Flossie Wong-Staal, Roy Allela, and Shirley Ann Jackson amount to no more than name dropping, absent end matter that could have commented on their accomplishments. Still, doggedly self-motivated Jabari and his reliably supportive dad are welcome role models in these family-friendly readalouds.