Shine

At school, the other children won’t let Kai into their den because he’s too tall, and they laugh at him because he has a scar on his cheek. He tells his parents that he wishes he were smaller, and wishes he had no scars. His parents tell him that everyone is different, with a special light inside them. He must let his shine through. Kai then has a chance to put these words into action the next day, when some kids tell Sam she’s too small to play basketball. Together, can they show the others that their differences are what make them special?

This is a gentle story with rhyming dialogue that reinforces the message that everyone is different and everyone is special. Kai’s parents are very supportive, and their words could be useful to repeat to any child feeling insecure or worried about being different. At the back is a useful list of suggested questions to stimulate a thoughtful discussion with a young child, or class of children, including considering how you treat others. The gorgeous, bright illustrations depict a wide range of children and a loving Black family with great warmth, making this a delightful read.