Wild About Us!
Illustrator: Janet Stevens
Would you dare tell Flamingo
he shouldn’t be pink?
Or Potbellied Pig she’s too plump,
do you think?
Join Warty Warthog as he highlights the unique features of his zoo friends in this joyful celebration of differences. Whether it’s Elephant’s long nose, or Hippo’s wiggly, jiggly, one-of-a-kind behind, or Kangaroo’s huge feet, the animals rejoice in their own, and others’ special uniqueness. Readers of all ages will be charmed and uplifted by this group’s unwavering confidence and compassion.
A fun and inspiring message that is sure to combat bullying, and bring out the very best in all of us. (Preschool–3rd grade)
(Don’t forget to search for the fly that is hiding on each animal!)
Reviews
“The rhythmic text and appealing layout make this a great choice for a read-aloud, and the content effortlessly prompts conversations about tolerance and self-acceptance.”
—Booklist, starred review
“Popping from animal to animal in snappy rhyming couplets, Beaumont shines in rhythmic play. Stevens, a master at animal portraiture…poses them peering directly at readers, almost as if to dare them to say anything disrespectful. Ultimately the animals conclude that they are glad for their differences. A gleeful look at self-acceptance.”
—Kirkus Reviews
“This subtle commentary about accepting who you are challenges gender stereotypes and suggests true beauty lies in how we see ourselves. A humorous rhyme that masks deep themes of self-acceptance and honoring diversity.”
—Shelf Awareness for Readers, starred review
