RAINBOW KITE

A youngster’s imagination takes flight in Bennett’s picture book.

Lulu spots a kite outside the window and ventures outside. As the child plays with this somewhat ragged kite, it takes on many shapes and forms, taking them around the neighborhood in a game of pretend. The unassuming object becomes a pet, a train, a pirate’s hat, and much more. Lulu’s game with the kite eventually catches the attention of other curious neighborhood children, and in the end, the kite is appreciated as something beautiful: “the once-plain kite bobbed and fluttered the way a bird might, a rainbow feathered bird, as it lifted high, high, high.” Bennett’s story helps children understand the importance of creativity and freedom while challenging gender stereotypes. When the kite becomes a train, a child exclaims, “And trains are for boys. Are you a boy?” Lulu confidently responds with, “I like trains,” rejecting the assumption that interests must be tied to gender. Similarly, when asked, “Are you a boy pirate or a girl pirate?” Lulu gives a simple yet powerful answer that emphasizes individuality over labels: “Arrrgh. I am a pirate pirate!” The characters vary in skin tone and gender expression; Lulu has light skin and brown hair. Brown’s bright, boldly lined digital illustrations complement the playful tone, though occasional inconsistencies in character depictions may momentarily disrupt the narrative flow.

A warm celebration of creativity and self-expression.