Spring 2026

You Can Do It, Bert!

  • Interest Level: Preschool - Grade 1
  • Reading Level: Grade 1

This is Bert’s big day. He is well prepared, mentally and physically. But he might need some encouragement.

You Can Do It, Bert! is a joyful picture book with a light as a feather story about taking a risk and believing in yourself.

This Irma Black Award Honor Book is a minimalist masterpiece that gives a boost to readers of all ages.

“Könnecke’s single-plane vignettes are gems of minimalist visual humor … handled with a light touch and easy-going reassurance.” Starred review, Publishers Weekly

Format Your Price Add
9798348030360
On pre-order until 02/03/2026
$9.99
9798348041809
On pre-order until 01/01/2026
$19.99
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Interest Level Preschool - Grade 1
Reading Level Grade 1
Genre Picture Books
Category SEL: A Self-Awareness, SEL: B Self-Management, Social Emotional Learning
Copyright 2026
Publisher Lerner Publishing Group
Imprint Gecko Press ™
Language English
Number of Pages 32
Publication Date 2026-01-01
Text Type Fiction
BISACS JUV039090, JUV039140, JUV039050
Dewey [E]
Dimensions 8.5 x 8.5
Features Awards, Original artwork, Reviewed, and Starred Reviews

Author, Illustrator: Ole Könnecke

Ole Könnecke was born in 1961 and spent his childhood in Sweden. He now lives in Germany and has produced more than thirty books, several of which have won international awards.

Awards

  • Cooperative Children's Book Center (CCBC) Choices, Winner, 2015
  • Irma S. and James H. Black Award for Excellence in Children's Literature Honor Book, Commended, 2015

Reviews

The Horn Book Magazine

“Könnecke uses the picture book format simply but brilliantly….Preschoolers faced with daunting new experiences will identify with Bert.”―Horn Book Magazine

Publishers Weekly

“Konnecke’s (Anton and the Battle) single-plane vignettes are gems of minimalist visual humor. . . . It’s a smart lesson for readers.”—starred, Publishers Weekly

School Library Journal

“With minimalistic illustrations, an expressive little orange bird, and lots of white space on each page, the book is a natural for preschool storytimes. A good choice for those embarking on a new adventure.”—School Library Journal

Kirkus Reviews

“A winning example of less is more.” —Kirkus Reviews