Review – You Can Do Anything, Tyrone! by Sir Lenny Henry

You Can Do Anything, Tyrone!: An Out of This World, Fun-filled Adventure. Audiobook. Salomey Doku (Illustrator)

An author you say?

I was introduced to this You Can Do Anything, Tyrone! by an advance copy of a biography of the author –   Lenny Henry by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara which I enjoyed reading.  It informed on a number of things about Sir Lenny Henry that I wasn’t aware of namely that he was a children’s author. 

What adventure are we off to in You Can Do Anything, Tyrone!

You Can Do Anything, Tyrone! by Sir Lenny Henry, is a short (8 minute) engaging audiobook.  Which I personally liked for  the adventure and the representation of a West Indian family and culture. Narrated by the author himself, it offers a delightful journey into a child’s imagination, underscored by the importance of self-confidence and self-regulation. I love it when accents and inflections are nailed.

The story revolves around young Tyrone, who aspires to build a rocket ship to the moon but faces challenges along the way. Grandad Cleveland’s presence is a highlight, imparting wisdom that resonates well with young listeners. His advice about belief, determination, and the power of imagination is the backbone of this tale.

 The rhyming narrative, paired with Salomey Doku’s illustrations, adds a layer of charm and fun.

Summing up You Can Do Anything, Tyrone!

It’s a short book so we’re not expecting war and peace, however, the story satisfies: delivering on the aim of building confidence and thinking of others.  It’s a good pick for a light, motivational read for kids, especially those with a vivid imagination, and is engaging enough to captivate those discerning young readers.