When Rudyard Kipling wrote “If—” in 1909, he was addressing his 12-year-old son, John, who would die in battle a few short years later during World War I.The famous author’s words soon inspired a nation, and the poem has twice been named Great Britain’s favorite. Italian illustrator Giovanni Manna melds the innocence of childhood with the encouraging sentiments expressed by Kipling’s words in this tender portrayal.