Also written and/or illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds: The Smallest Gift of Christmas Judy Moody & Stink: The Holly Joliday Free to Be...You and Me (The 35th Anniversary Edition) by Marlo Thomas and friends, illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds Ages 9-12 128 pages Running Press Kids October 2008 Hardcover     Free to Be You and Me, Special 35th Anniversary Edition is an updated release of Marlo Thomas’s original beloved compilation of uplifting songs, poems and stories for children. This hardcover edition has many new illustrations for a new generation of readers and comes with a CD containing some of the songs featured in the book. Each page features a feast for the eyes in the form of sweet and funny drawings, and a positive message to children about the virtues of equality, kindness and self-determination. For those who grew up with Marlo Thomas’s show, this book will provide many hours of nostalgic musing, and the opportunity to expose their children to the same inspirational message about embracing individuality. While some of the poems and stories may strike modern readers, especially adults, as relentlessly earnest and cheery, there are wonderful messages here for young children trying to determine who they are in the world.     web reviews   Usha Reynolds/2009 for curled up with a good kid's book   For grown-up fiction, nonfiction and speculative fiction book reviews, visit our sister site Curled Up With a Good Book (www.curledup.com)