One of a Kind Review

Synopsis from Penguin Young Readers:

Bold, graphic art by indie rocker Chris Gorman of Belly captures the thrill and challenges of marching to your own beat.

Meet a pogo-dancing, punk-rock-loving kid who loves to express himself in his own unique way. His clothes, hairstyle, music, and just the way he hears the world, all set him apart. Not everyone understands him, but he likes being one of a kind–even though it’s lonely sometimes. Fortunately, it’s a wide world out there, and if he looks around a kid is sure to find other one-of-a-kinds with common interests.

About: One of a Kind is a children’s picture book written and illustrated by Chris Gorman. It was recently published on 5/8/18 by Nancy Paulsen Books, an imprint of Penguin Random House, hardcover, 32 pages. The genres are children’s fiction, picture book, and music. This book is intended for readers ages 5 to 8 years old. According to the publisher’s website, “Nancy Paulsen Books launched its first hardcover list in Fall 2011. The imprint publishes fifteen books a year and focuses on eye-opening, often funny picture books and fiction from diverse and distinct voices, especially stories that are inventive and emotionally satisfying. These are the kinds of books that are adopted by book clubs and that appear on state lists, generated by the votes of children.” Please see below for more information about the author and publisher.

My Experience: I started reading One of a Kind on 5/20/18 and finished it that same night. I planned on reading this book to my son as a bedtime story but he decided to read it by himself. We both liked this book. I like that he reads it for himself and hopefully uses it as a guide. I like how this book is written for kids who are different. I like the reminder that there are other kids that are different too so they wouldn’t have to always feel left out.

In this book, readers will follow a boy, who likes punk rock and dresses too cool for kids his age. He feels left out of the norm where other kids may wear casual clothing or into sports. His interests are different from the others and he likes being one of a kind, but he does feels lonely sometimes. If he looks up and see that there are one, two, or three kids who likes similar music that he likes, then they all could be different together and then he wouldn’t feel so alone anymore.

This book is well written and illustrated. The black and white captures the punk rock and the pink and yellow font truly pull readers’ attention. I like how this book encourages kids to be who they are and embrace what they like to do. I like that young kids can express the love for music other than their target age and pursue their interest rather than wait because they may be too young for it. I like the reminder that being different is lonely and when kids read this book, they will be aware that if they want to set themselves apart, they may be lonely at times. This book is excellent for kids and I highly recommend the read!

Pro: music, being different, express yourself, individuality, set yourself apart, one of a kind

Con: none

I rate it 5 stars!

Buy it here for free shipping: Book Depository or Penguin’s Website

About the Author:

Chris Gorman also wrote and illustrated Indi Surfs, which The New York Times called, “As simultaneously exhilarating and meditative as surfing itself.” He’s a drummer—and founding member—of the Grammy-nominated band Belly, as well as a professional photographer. Born and raised in Rhode Island, he now lives in Long Beach, New York, with his wife and two children. (Info provided by Penguin Young Readers and book photos obtained from Edelweiss, author photo obtained from author’s Indi Surfs’ Facebook).

***Disclaimer: Many thanks to Penguin Young Readers for the opportunity to read and review. Please be assured that my opinions are honest.

xoxo,
Jasmine