Mostly Me

by Collin Hall, Crystal Dawn Chaffee (Illustrator)

I’ve got some green, I’ve got some blue. Some have asked, “So what are you?” Not quite blue, not fully green. I’m something new. I’m in-between. This joyful and introspective picture book about navigating biracial identity follows a blue-green narrator on a journey of self-discovery. Written in playful rhyme, Mostly Me is an ode to readers of all ages that have felt out of place, questioning who they are. Navigating oft-asked questions like “Who am I? Do I belong?”, readers discover the most empowering answer of “I’m mostly me.” Written and illustrated by two biracial storytellers, author Collin Hall and artist Crystal Dawn Chaffee, this book creates a vibrant and uplifting message for anyone who feels like they're in-between. “Beautifully written and illustrated, charming and uplifting. I wish I had this book growing up. Mostly Me is a simple yet profound story of who we are and the questions we’re so often asked (and ask ourselves), told in a whimsical and memorable way.” — Jo Ling Kent, CBS News, Senior Business and Tech Correspondent

Genres: Childrens, Cultural

32 pages, Hardcover

Published May 24, 2023

Reviews

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a sweet book and such a meaningful message. It shows how diverse we all are, and how one individual blended blue and green drop is both blue and green and also special and unique.

[Karen Siddall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Imaginative, soothing, colorful, and rhyming!

With its colorful and somewhat retro designs, MOSTLY ME by Collin Hall introduces the topic of being multiracial, addressing the feelings that arise when children (or even adults) experience reactions or questions about their physical differences. Our family includes members who would have benefitted from such a positive picture book and others who would have gained awareness that their comments were sometimes confusing and hurtful. Kudos to the author and illustrator for addressing this big issue in such a lovely way. This book would be perfect for use at home, school, daycare, or after-school programs.

[Jan Sikes · Rating 5 out of 5]

This children's book is such a delight. It carries a beautiful message that touched my heart. We've all known that child who was a little different and struggled to fit in or find a place in society. This story is about a color that is not quite blue and not quite green. We see the character try to find a place with each color only to realize neither is the right fit for them. But the heartwarming moment of realization is perfect. No matter the color, size, or any other perceived differences, all each of us can do is be ourselves. I highly recommend this book for any age.

[Jenn Belden · Rating 5 out of 5]

adorable…and a powerful message

What a charming book, with fun illustrations, a rhyming scheme for kids to enjoy and some fun new words (azure!) - and a powerful message for all kids (but biracial in particular) that they are wonderful just as they are and they don’t need to fit into a certain slot

[Leslie aka StoreyBook Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a cute kid's book. It talks about being different and the blending of genes from both parents to create a unique new person. It reminds us that we are never fully exactly like either parent, but a nice blend of both, and we are all seeking our own path in life.

Perfect for all.

[Jennie Rosenblum · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a past children's librarian, I would happily put this book on my shelf and have a blast reading it for storytime. The prose and rhythm are perfect for a read-aloud. The illustrations are colorful and eye catching. It's a story that every child can relate to and enjoy.

[Suzanne Thatcher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Colorful, fun story

Cute and creative story for young children to see that there are many colors in all of us which make us all unique

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

A perfect children's book for today's world!

Every elementary school needs this book in their library. Mostly Me explains that it is ok to be biracial in terms of color hues. Every child is unique and special in who they are no matter their color.