We all want our children to learn that it’s important to dance to the beat of your own drum and be yourself! As parents, we also want them to learn empathy and acceptance. Here are some of our favourite picture books that will be sure to spark discussions on these topics and help foster that understanding - each book itself stands out from the crowd and boldly declares "I am my own special creation!" Which is your favourite?
Odd Dog Out by Rob Biddulph tells the story of one small dog who just doesn't fit in. She looks different, and plays differently, and so she leaves her city behind in search of new adventures... and discovers a new city full of dogs just like her! She finally fits in! Until, she meets another odd dog out who tells her she should stand tall and be proud. Upon returning home she discovers that all of her city slicker dog friends have missed her very much! Odd Dog Out is a lovely picture book written in rhyme with bold, vibrant illustrations and lots of humour!
Odd Bods by Steven Butler and Jarvis is a poem about 26 very strange characters who have some equally strange habits and hobbies. It's an alphabetical list of odd bods - and it's laugh-out-loud funny! The bright, bold and colourful illustrations make this book even more enticing, bringing to life each character and their unique quirks. The characters are diverse and bizarre, and celebrate every unique personality with hilarity and cheer.
Be Normal! by Ged Adamson is a touching and funny story about friendship and celebrating individuality, with gorgeous, bright illustrations. Theo can't wait to get his very own dog, but when Geoff arrives, Theo is confused. Geoff doesn't play fetch, chase squirrels or do any normal doggy things. He likes painting and making smoothies! Why can't Geoff be like other dogs? Will Theo discover that accepting your friends just as they are is more important than being normal? After all, why be normal... when you can be yourself?
Leaping Lemmings! by John Briggs and Nicola Slater is a thought-provoking picture book with loveable characters and a message that resonates with readers of all ages. What if there was one lemming who doesn't go along with the crowd? He sets off to see if he could find somewhere to fit in and tries living with the seals, the puffins, and even the polar bears, but he doesn't fit in there either. On his return to Lemming-land he finds a disaster waiting to happen: the lemmings are heading straight for the cliff edge. Will Larry manage to save his lemming pals and show them that it's better to think for yourself than following the crowd?!
Elmer by David McKee is a picture book classic about the brightly coloured patchwork elephant who doesn't exactly blend in. Elmer makes all the other elephants happy, but the strain of being different is difficult for Elmer and he tries to find a way to fit in. A wonderful picture book that shows how being bright and cheerful is something to be celebrated, and that changing the way you look won't change who you are! A wonderful message for small children.
We're All Wonders by R.J. Palacio brings the story of Auggie, a little boy who is disfigured and simply wants to fit in and be accepted for who he is, to younger readers, showing children what it is like to live in Auggie's world. This is a world in which Auggie feels like an "ordinary kid" but because he doesn't look ordinary he is often treated unfairly. It is a perfect introduction to empathy and taps into every child's wish to belong and to be accepted for who they are.
Not Your Typical Dragon by Dan Bar-el delivers a fun reminder that differences can be strengths, and encourages young readers to embrace their individuality. Crispin can’t breathe fire like all the other dragons — he breathes things like marshmallows instead! But what seems like a weakness turns out to be exactly what’s needed. Differences are not flaws to be hidden but strengths to be celebrated.
Take a look at our other blog posts to discover more book recommendations to different ages, or browse our titles and monthly book subscriptions for kids for the perfect gifts to help them discover the joy of reading!
