#Review: Vincent Can’t Go by Mariyam Fatima

Vincent Can’t Go
Author: Mariyam Fatima
Illustrator: Habib Ali
Publisher: Penguinsters

Vincent Can’t Go is one of those quiet, powerful stories that stays with you long after the last page — not because it’s loud or flashy, but because it speaks to something real. Vincent’s frustration is deeply relatable for any child who’s ever felt left out of the fun for reasons beyond their control.

The story begins with a simple yet heartbreaking refrain — every time Vincent wants to do something, his mother responds with “Vincent can’t go.” The repetition is gentle but effective; we feel his disappointment build. And while the book doesn’t spell out everything about why his father is away, that absence looms large, shaping the home and Vincent’s daily life.

What works beautifully is how child-centric the story remains — it’s told entirely from Vincent’s point of view, full of hope, little plans, and stubborn resilience. When his best friend’s birthday party approaches, Vincent is determined to make it happen — and how he does it is clever, funny, and heartwarming.

Habib Ali’s illustrations deserve a special mention. They’re warm, textured, and filled with emotion — from Vincent’s sulky face to the small details that capture the mood of a house missing a parent.

If I have one small quibble, it’s that I would’ve liked to see a bit more from the mother’s perspective — even a hint of her internal struggle. But maybe that’s just the adult in me talking. For children, the story works just right — simple, honest, and full of quiet triumph.

Perfect for kids aged 7 and up, Vincent Can’t Go is a gentle but empowering read about agency, patience, and finding a way — even when things feel stuck. Highly recommended for school libraries and bedtime shelves alike.

Find this book here.