DEVIN'S GIFT

A young boy mulls the perfect present for his BFF.

Devin and Luka have been pals since the first day of school, when Devin noticed that Luka was sad at having to ride the bus without a friend. After that, the two do everything together—except ride the bus (they apparently take different routes). As Luka’s 5th birthday approaches, Devin wants to get him something special. His grandmother takes him to the toy store, where he finds a gift that’s just right—a doll that resembles Luka and that will accompany him on the school bus when Devin can’t. A comment from Devin’s brother (“Boys get dinosaurs and girls get tea sets”) that’s never directly addressed may raise eyebrows, though ultimately the tale offers a gentle rebuke to gender normativity as Devin rejects suggestions such as firetrucks and sports equipment in favor of the doll. Tyson’s story is on the wordy side, but Devin’s measured responses to potential gifts—opting against a toy bulldozer because Luka once found a real-life construction site loud and overwhelming, for instance—should serve as inspiration as children do some gift-giving of their own. Glenn’s soft-hued digital artwork captures Devin’s uncertainties. Devin presents Black, while Luka appears white.

A birthday tale with an uplifting message: It truly is the thought that counts.