I'm (Mostly) Happy Being Me
by Anna Milbourne, illustrated by Åsa Gilland
Interest age: 3 to 7
Published by Usborne, 2026
About this book
A little boy notices that at school, everyone else is good at things. Kai is great at drawing, Frankie's brilliant at football. And Jakub tells the funniest jokes. But what about him? He's not really that good at anything. Or so he thinks. Until his parents and his classmates show him that everyone is different and wonderful in their own way - like pebbles on the beach.
This gentle story might echo some young children's worries or concerns when they start nursery or school. Who are they? Where do they fit in? Our character is quick to notice others' qualities, but has to focus on his own, which might prompt young readers to do the same. This is much humour and joy in the everyday examples of personal likes, dislikes and abilities, and along with the bright, characterful illustrations, this makes for a super reassuring, positive read. Adding to the fun are shaped holes in some pages, making it a pleasure to flick them back and forth. There is an inclusive, diverse mix of children shown in the pictures, echoing real-life classrooms, and the family is mixed-race.
A joyous celebration of individuality that would be ideal to share with a classroom or group of young children.
More books like this
-
The Map of Me
by Nicola Davies, illustrated by Olga Shtonda
3 to 7 years
-
I’m (Almost) Never Bored
by Anna Milbourne, illustrated by Åsa Gilland
3 to 7 years
-
This Is Who I Am
by Rashmi Sirdeshpande, illustrated by Ruchi Mhasane
4 to 7 years
-
Strong Like Me
by Kelechi Okafor, illustrated by Michaela Dias-Hayes
4 to 7 years
Lists of recommended reads
-
Starting school: books to read with a new class
Starting school is a big step. This booklist is designed to support teachers in helping children begin Reception with confidence and enthusiasm. It features a carefully chosen mix of stories that explore emotions like worry and excitement, joyful read-alouds that build connection, well-loved classics, and interactive books that encourage movement and joining in.
-
Picture books to support a healthy mind
We've put together a selection of picture books that can help young children to start to understand mental health and support a healthy mind. They include titles that touch on sadness, anxiety and finding courage and reassurance, and are books which can help to supply useful strategies and support a growth mindset.
-
Mixed families
It's crucial that all children see a variety of families depicted in books, as this reflects the reality of our society. Here is a selection of our favourite books for 0-5 year olds starring mixed-race families.