Representation matters. Not only to those who long to see familiar faces in media but to those whose only interaction with diversity is through the stories told on television and in books. Reading stories featuring diverse people, cultures and lifestyles can better prepare your children for an ever-changing world and counteract harmful stereotypes that lead to bullying. Each month I will review two books that I enjoy reading with my children and I hope that your family will enjoy as well.
This Month’s Selections:
Morris Micklewhite And The Tangerine Dress by Christine Baldcchino
I LOVE THIS BOOK!!!!! Really it is one of my absolute favorite books. It is a story of a young boy who loves to were a tangerine dress when he plays. The dress is an extension of his imagination and reminiscent of things dear to his heart. Of course his affection for the dress is misunderstood by classmates and leads to deep feelings of sadness for Morris. There is however a happy ending and he and his classmates learn to accept each other.
What I love most about this book is the way it captures the innocent nature of the child and beautifully illustrates his true feelings about the dress. This story takes a very heated and controversial subject and highlights Morris’ basic humanity. He just wants to have fun like every other child. There are no unsavory intentions, just a boy who loves to use his imagination to go on adventures in a orange dress that reminds him of his mother’s hair. Most importantly it highlights the devastating effect bullying can have on children. And while these are complicated and intense subjects the book is able to tell the story in a light youthful way that children can relate to. Although I should not have to stress this in 2018 I will say this book has nothing to do with anything sexual (sigh).
If my encouragement is not enough allow me to list the amazing accolades this book has received below. It is a great read for kids and adults alike. Please check it out.
Stonewall Honor Book in Children’s and Young Adult Literature
Selected for the American Library Association’s Rainbow List
Finalist for the TD Canadian Children’s Literature Award
Finalist for the Marilyn Baillie Picture Book Award
Finalist for the Blue Spruce Award
A Kirkus Reviews Best Book of the Year
Kirkus Reviews selection for Best Picture Book Celebrating Diversity
A Cooperative Children’s Book Center Choice
A Huffington Post Best Picture Book of the Year
Julian Is A Mermaid by Jessica Love
I love this book too. It tackles the same sensitive subject but on a different level. This book has what I can confidently say are my all time favorite illustrations. The vibrant colorful pictures take me back to my childhood and community. I easily identify with the faces and expressions of the characters and smile when I turn every page. The story is also simple and heartwarming. After a bus ride with his grandmother where Julian encounters vibrantly dressed young women on their way to a parade he decides he would like to dress up too. He becomes enthralled with the idea and makes his own costume out of Grandma’s possessions, that is until she catches him in the act. Julian is instantly feeling shame but his loving Abuela is supportive of his creativity and joins in the fun.
This book was just recently released so it hasn’t racked up the accolades like the previous selection but I am sure they will soon be on the horizon. Again this is another refreshing look and how deeply human acceptance and interaction effect our feelings. The bright colors and easy to follow story make it perfect for family members of all ages.
Please take time to share these stories with your family.
