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UNIQUE STARTS WITH YOU! by Jennifer Campbell

UNIQUE STARTS WITH YOU!

by Jennifer Campbell ; illustrated by Pardeep Mehra

Pub Date: Nov. 23rd, 2019
ISBN: 978-0-578-55741-0
Publisher: Eiram Media & Publishing

Being different makes the world a better place according to this debut picture book.

“You are UNIQUE! Yes, YOU!” the narrator declares to young readers, addressing them directly throughout. Using very general terminology to promote a universal applicability, the narrator explains that ever since the readers were born (or “created”), they have been unique and there is no one else like them. The narrator discusses feelings of jealousy over others and suggests that sometimes those who are unkind secretly want to be like the readers. The narrator’s straightforward but somewhat repetitive passages emphasize that kindness and caring are important. Campbell’s occasional uses of religious vocabulary (“Every person is a blessing”) are vague enough not to undermine the message of diversity, and the constant emphasis on using unique skills to help others and work together fosters a sense of community. Mehra’s (Flip, the Fainting Goat, 2019, etc.) colorful cartoon illustrations are filled with children of different shapes, skin tones, and abilities. But one image features a negative depiction of an Asian girl in ethnic stereotyped clothing, which may concern some readers. Still, Mehra particularly excels at representing disabled kids taking part in the same activities as their peers.

A heartfelt but uneven celebration of unique abilities that may inspire readers to help others.