What makes us unique? Our first talk about diversity

PreS-Gr 1-A discussion on differences in physical appearance, personal preference, culture, and lifestyle ("In nature, a rainbow is made beautiful by all of its different colors. And just like that rainbow, the world is made beautiful because it's filled with many different kinds of people."). Simple questions (for instance, "What about different cultures?") help prod the narrative along after each topic (e.g., tradition, language) is covered. The overall message is that people are all much more alike than different. The illustrations, done in oil, are bright and playful and depict individuals who are diverse in terms of skin color, race, body shape, age, and physical capability. Illustrated scenes of folks waiting in line at a bus stop or playing in a park are familiar and ideal for the intended age group. Additional questions at the back of the book allow for further discussion. VERDICT An accessible introduction for young children to the concepts of diversity and respect.-Paula Huddy, The Blake School-Highcroft Campus, Wayzata, MN © Copyright 2016. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Explaining the ways in which people can be different and fostering respect for these differences, this book -- now in a paperback edition -- describes how diversity can include outside variances (such as eye color, shape, and physical ability), personality characteristics (such as being gregarious versus introverted), and cultural differences. Child-friendly art, appropriately reflecting the "rainbow" of human differences, accompanies the purposeful, well-intentioned text. A final page addresses sexual orientation, racism, and prejudice in a bit more detail. (c) Copyright 2023. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.