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Remarkably You: An Inspirational Picture Book About Being Yourself for Kids
Pat Zietlow Miller celebrates individuality in her picture book about the beauty of being yourself.
Remarkably You is a manifesto about all of the things—little or small, loud or quiet—that make us who we are.
You might go unnoticed, or shine like a star,
but wherever you go and whoever you are…
don’t change how you act to be just like the rest.
Believe in yourself and the things you do best.
Remarkably You is a manifesto about all of the things—little or small, loud or quiet—that make us who we are.
You might go unnoticed, or shine like a star,
but wherever you go and whoever you are…
don’t change how you act to be just like the rest.
Believe in yourself and the things you do best.
32 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2019
4 people are currently reading
302 people want to read
About the author
Pat Zietlow Miller
30 books250 followersPat Zietlow Miller knew she wanted to be a writer ever since her seventh-grade English teacher read her paper about square-dancing skirts out loud in class and said: “This is the first time anything a student has written has given me chills.” (Thanks, Mrs. Mueller! You rock!)
Pat started out as a newspaper reporter and wrote about everything from dartball and deer-hunting to diets and decoupage. Then, she joined an insurance company and edited its newsletter and magazine.
Now, she writes insurance information by day and children’s books by night. She has 11 picture books available and 12 more that will be coming out in the next few years.
Her books in print are: SOPHIE’S SQUASH, WHEREVER YOU GO, SHARING THE BREAD, THE QUICKEST KID IN CLARKSVILLE, SOPHIE'S SQUASH GO TO SCHOOL, WIDE-AWAKE BEAR, LORETTA'S GIFT, BE KIND, REMARKABLY YOU, MY BROTHER THE DUCK and WHEN YOU ARE BRAVE.
Pat has one wonderful husband, two delightful daughters and two pampered cats. She doesn’t watch much TV, but she does love "Chopped." Pat lives in Madison, Wisconsin.
Pat started out as a newspaper reporter and wrote about everything from dartball and deer-hunting to diets and decoupage. Then, she joined an insurance company and edited its newsletter and magazine.
Now, she writes insurance information by day and children’s books by night. She has 11 picture books available and 12 more that will be coming out in the next few years.
Her books in print are: SOPHIE’S SQUASH, WHEREVER YOU GO, SHARING THE BREAD, THE QUICKEST KID IN CLARKSVILLE, SOPHIE'S SQUASH GO TO SCHOOL, WIDE-AWAKE BEAR, LORETTA'S GIFT, BE KIND, REMARKABLY YOU, MY BROTHER THE DUCK and WHEN YOU ARE BRAVE.
Pat has one wonderful husband, two delightful daughters and two pampered cats. She doesn’t watch much TV, but she does love "Chopped." Pat lives in Madison, Wisconsin.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
October 18, 2019
This book will appeal to so many kids, and adults, who not only see themselves in the diversity of the kids, but also in the range of interests and activities portrayed in this book. It is a beautiful ode to the enthusiasm, wonder, and resourcefulness of kids. As a giant hug to the reader, it is a reminder that each one of us is a truly remarkable uniqueness that never existed in the world before. Each with the potential to do great things. It is a joyous celebration of individuality and acceptance. Everyone has an "unparalleled flair" and the ability to make a difference in our community or in the world.
Delightfully, the book resists stereotypes and doesn't shy away from some challenging words. It's a book I would recommend for every library, classroom, and home. One that lends itself to new discoveries with each reading.
Delightfully, the book resists stereotypes and doesn't shy away from some challenging words. It's a book I would recommend for every library, classroom, and home. One that lends itself to new discoveries with each reading.
February 6, 2019
Author Pat Zietlow Miller and illustrator Patrice Barton join forces in Remarkably You, a new inspirational picture-book meant to encourage children to use their talents to do good things in the world. Whatever their personalities, whatever their interests, the rhyming text here exhorts the reader: "Don't sit on the sidelines. / Be part of the fray. / Go after your passions a little each day. / Find what needs fixing. / Repair what you can. / Then choose a new problem and do it again." Ending with a message of affirmation, the story concludes that the listener/reader is "remarkably you..."
Remarkably You is the second inspirational picture-book I have read in the last few days, following upon Samantha Berger's Rock What Ya Got . Unlike the Berger title, which I found somewhat unbalanced in its exploration of the idea of self-affirmation, here I thought that author Pat Zietlow Miller got it just right. Rather than being a rejection of change, as was the case in the well-meaning Rock What Ya Got , which seemed to equate any attempt at self-improvement as a form of self-hatred, here the narrative calls for change at the very beginning, encouraging readers to get involved in the world around them. Every bit as affirmational as the Berger book, with similar messages about self-acceptance, Remarkably You offers the kind of balance I mentioned as being missing, in my review of Rock What Ya Got. The engaging text here is paired with lovely artwork from illustrator Patrice Barton, whose work I have encountered (and enjoyed) in such titles as The Invisible Boy and Hello Goodbye Dog . All in all, a sweet new picture-book, one I would recommend to those looking for children's books that encourage both a sense of self worth and a sense of engagement with the wider world.
Remarkably You is the second inspirational picture-book I have read in the last few days, following upon Samantha Berger's Rock What Ya Got . Unlike the Berger title, which I found somewhat unbalanced in its exploration of the idea of self-affirmation, here I thought that author Pat Zietlow Miller got it just right. Rather than being a rejection of change, as was the case in the well-meaning Rock What Ya Got , which seemed to equate any attempt at self-improvement as a form of self-hatred, here the narrative calls for change at the very beginning, encouraging readers to get involved in the world around them. Every bit as affirmational as the Berger book, with similar messages about self-acceptance, Remarkably You offers the kind of balance I mentioned as being missing, in my review of Rock What Ya Got. The engaging text here is paired with lovely artwork from illustrator Patrice Barton, whose work I have encountered (and enjoyed) in such titles as The Invisible Boy and Hello Goodbye Dog . All in all, a sweet new picture-book, one I would recommend to those looking for children's books that encourage both a sense of self worth and a sense of engagement with the wider world.
January 27, 2020
In rhyming text, this inspiring picture book encourages children to change the world, regardless of their personality type or interests. Everyone can make a difference by solving problems and sharing their gifts with the world. The soft, soothing illustrations are absolutely stunning and change enough between page spreads to keep the reader looking from face to face after each page turn. I also appreciate the fact that the artwork showcases diverse characters ranging from young to old and including a variety of ethnicities. The only thing I did not see among the 86 individuals illustrated was a child with a noticeable disability. However, I'd say this book is one of my very favorite picture book reads from 2019! Beautiful! The illustrations in this book were created with pencil sketches and mixed media, assembled and painted digitally.
For more children's literature, middle grade literature, and YA literature reviews, feel free to visit my personal blog at The Miller Memo!
For more children's literature, middle grade literature, and YA literature reviews, feel free to visit my personal blog at The Miller Memo!
February 16, 2019
It is our wish for every child to embrace exactly who they are with joy. We want them to wake up every morning knowing they have the potential to do important things, big or small. We want them to drift off to sleep at night knowing everything about their day has value, even if mistakes happen. They do make a difference. The world would be less than it should be without them.
Each child is an essential piece in the puzzle of life regardless of their shape or size. Remarkably YOU (Harper, an imprint of HarperCollinsPublishers, February 5, 2019) written by Pat Zietlow Miller with illustrations by Patrice Barton is a lively look at what all children are and what they can be. It's overflowing with exuberance and at its heart, full of love.
My full recommendation: https://librariansquest.blogspot.com/...
Each child is an essential piece in the puzzle of life regardless of their shape or size. Remarkably YOU (Harper, an imprint of HarperCollinsPublishers, February 5, 2019) written by Pat Zietlow Miller with illustrations by Patrice Barton is a lively look at what all children are and what they can be. It's overflowing with exuberance and at its heart, full of love.
My full recommendation: https://librariansquest.blogspot.com/...
December 14, 2019
A lovely message, conveyed in perfect rhyme. Our two-year-old loved this one. This would be a wonderful baby shower or early birthday gift!
April 18, 2019
Pat Zietlow Miller, you have done it again. You’ve written another book that I fell in love with immediately, from the very first page. Written in rhyming verse, Remarkably You reminds children that they will all have different gifts, skills, and passions, and that this diversity is truly amazing. Miller encourages children to find what they’re good at and understand how they can give to their communities to make a change. I also love her messages about sticking with whatever your gifts or passions are, even if they’re different from those around them, as well as encouraging children to find multiple talents. Thanks, Pat, for reminding children of the power of being themselves.
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And Patrice Barton, your illustrations are so fun, happy, accessibly simple, and diverse! These are simply children doing what brings them joy, contributing however they can, and showing off their talents as children should. Yet, these children aren’t perfect. We can see the effort they’re exerting, and how sometimes they make mistakes. We see that sometimes they need help from friends to fix a problem, sometimes they make a mess, and sometimes they’re frustrated or sad. Rather than showcasing children who seem to be prodigies roller skating or drawing, these children seem real. They’re working, they’re learning, and they’re loving what they do.
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In the end, Miller reminds readers, “You are a blessing, a promise, a prize. / You’re capable, caring, courageous, and wise. / You might go unnoticed or shine like a star. / But wherever you go and whoever you are… / Don’t change how you act to be just like the rest. / Believe in yourself and the things you do best. / So whether you’re daring or careful or kind, / embrace who you are and the way you’re designed.”
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Publishers recommend for ages 4-8, but I think many younger children would also enjoy this one too, given the illustrations and rhyming verse.
If you liked this, check out:
The Big Orange Splot by Pinkwater
Stand Tall, Molly Lou Melon by Lovell
How to Be a Lion by Vere
Red: A Crayon’s Story by Hall
A Bad Case of Stripes by Shannon
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And Patrice Barton, your illustrations are so fun, happy, accessibly simple, and diverse! These are simply children doing what brings them joy, contributing however they can, and showing off their talents as children should. Yet, these children aren’t perfect. We can see the effort they’re exerting, and how sometimes they make mistakes. We see that sometimes they need help from friends to fix a problem, sometimes they make a mess, and sometimes they’re frustrated or sad. Rather than showcasing children who seem to be prodigies roller skating or drawing, these children seem real. They’re working, they’re learning, and they’re loving what they do.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
In the end, Miller reminds readers, “You are a blessing, a promise, a prize. / You’re capable, caring, courageous, and wise. / You might go unnoticed or shine like a star. / But wherever you go and whoever you are… / Don’t change how you act to be just like the rest. / Believe in yourself and the things you do best. / So whether you’re daring or careful or kind, / embrace who you are and the way you’re designed.”
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Publishers recommend for ages 4-8, but I think many younger children would also enjoy this one too, given the illustrations and rhyming verse.
If you liked this, check out:
The Big Orange Splot by Pinkwater
Stand Tall, Molly Lou Melon by Lovell
How to Be a Lion by Vere
Red: A Crayon’s Story by Hall
A Bad Case of Stripes by Shannon
November 22, 2019
This is one of the best books ever!! The illustrations are dreamy and the words are perfect!
February 6, 2019
Another great book that tells children how great it is to be an individual and how many ways there are to stand out. This picture book doesn't tell a story, it tells you lots of things that you, or the people around you, might be--and suggests that it's all okay! Because it is okay, in fact, it's great. Whatever you are the world needs you!
The illustrations are the heart of this book, especially the final image of a little boy exhuberantly beating the drums in his crown. Everyone should look just like he looks at least once a day--and should feel about oneself the way that you can tell that he feels. It's charming, beautiful, and inspiring! The illustration of children on swings that covers a double truck is equally amazing, all kinds of kids--and one upside down. Lovable and freeing. Every illustration is enchanting and invites a reader to remember the invincible emotions and imagination of childhood. Yup, this reviewer is in-love with another great book!
See more reviews on http://byucbmr.com/
The illustrations are the heart of this book, especially the final image of a little boy exhuberantly beating the drums in his crown. Everyone should look just like he looks at least once a day--and should feel about oneself the way that you can tell that he feels. It's charming, beautiful, and inspiring! The illustration of children on swings that covers a double truck is equally amazing, all kinds of kids--and one upside down. Lovable and freeing. Every illustration is enchanting and invites a reader to remember the invincible emotions and imagination of childhood. Yup, this reviewer is in-love with another great book!
See more reviews on http://byucbmr.com/
July 4, 2019
If Mr. Rogers were still around, Pat Zietlow Miller's Remarkably You is exactly the kind of book that he would read to children on his television show. Perhaps, more precisely, it is the kind of book that would become the basis for an entire show. Writing encouraging rhyming phrases that reassure every child that they are remarkable no matter what, is exactly the mantra that Fred Rogers preached on the air. So if you loved the sentment of Mr. Roger's Neighborhood, you'll want to read this book to your children over and over, and take delight in the words as well as Patrice Barton's lovely illustrations - full of energy and happiness. Perhaps there's a bit that's overly idyllic about the premise of this book, but I'll take that over cynicism and mean-spiritedness anytime.
November 13, 2019
This picture book features beautiful illustrations, wonderful rhyming stanzas, and a wonderful message. As a future teacher I think every student needs to hear this message to know that they are special and perfect just as they are; that there is no need to change themselves in order to change the world. While some may see this book and think it is not for older readers, I wholeheartedly disagree since I think ESPECIALLY as kids get older they need to hear that they are special just the way they are. I would use this as an opening to the school year project and read-aloud so students know they are special and they can see the special qualities they have. I think this would be important to refer back to throughout the year as it could be great for comparing characters and their actions.
September 16, 2020
The only reason I didn’t give this book the full five stars is because some of the language is a little above kindergarten level and that is the age group I was using it for.
The illustrations are done beautifully and the entire book has a great message. There were a few times though that I had to stop and explain what a word meant to the kids. It’s never a bad thing for kiddos to learn new words, but it can be difficult to learn four or more new words within one new book.
I think this book is great for ages 6 or 7 and up. The message doesn’t get old and the watercolor illustrations are beautifully done!
The illustrations actually gave me an idea for an art activity in class, so that was an added bonus!
The illustrations are done beautifully and the entire book has a great message. There were a few times though that I had to stop and explain what a word meant to the kids. It’s never a bad thing for kiddos to learn new words, but it can be difficult to learn four or more new words within one new book.
I think this book is great for ages 6 or 7 and up. The message doesn’t get old and the watercolor illustrations are beautifully done!
The illustrations actually gave me an idea for an art activity in class, so that was an added bonus!
May 13, 2020
This book reads like a long, endearing birthday card from a grandparent. Written in rhyme, Pat Zietlow Miller celebrates individuality and encourages readers of all ages to be themselves and celebrate who they are. The text occasionally loses its rhythm, but it does not hinder the positive message of the book.
Patrice Barton's illustrations are a combination of pencil sketches and mixed media, assembled and painted digitally. They are muted, but warm and full of adventure, fun, and joy.
Overall, this is a lovely choice for library collections seeking to add self-esteem and empowerment books to their collection, and is a lovely choice for read-alouds as well.
Patrice Barton's illustrations are a combination of pencil sketches and mixed media, assembled and painted digitally. They are muted, but warm and full of adventure, fun, and joy.
Overall, this is a lovely choice for library collections seeking to add self-esteem and empowerment books to their collection, and is a lovely choice for read-alouds as well.
November 11, 2022
I enjoyed this book because I feel it would appeal to so many kids, and honestly even adults, who can see themselves in diversity and in the many different interests that are portrayed in this book. It shows the enthusiasm, wonder and even the resourcefulness that kids experience and use everyday. It reminds everyone that each and every one of us is unique and truly special. My favorite part was that it tells us that each of us has the opportunity to do something great and special in our lives, no matter who we are or where we come from.
August 19, 2024
Another beautiful story from Pat Zietlow Miller - inspired me to be myself - and put all of Pat's books on hold! They will clearly all be worth reading and sharing.
No matter who you are - loud, shy, funny, fast, small, adventurous, playful, bookish - the world needs your gifts. You have special things inside you. Being you is never wrong or bad, everyone is different and that's what makes the world such a wonderful place!
Encourages kids to embrace their unique-ness, and never change to fit in. Feels empowering to read even as an adult. An excellent and important message for us all.
No matter who you are - loud, shy, funny, fast, small, adventurous, playful, bookish - the world needs your gifts. You have special things inside you. Being you is never wrong or bad, everyone is different and that's what makes the world such a wonderful place!
Encourages kids to embrace their unique-ness, and never change to fit in. Feels empowering to read even as an adult. An excellent and important message for us all.
August 19, 2024
Another beautiful story from Pat Zietlow Miller - inspired me to be myself - and put all of Pat's books on hold! They will clearly all be worth reading and sharing.
No matter who you are - loud, shy, funny, fast, small, adventurous, playful, bookish - the world needs your gifts. You have special things inside you. Being you is never wrong or bad, everyone is different and that's what makes the world such a wonderful place!
Encourages kids to embrace their unique-ness, and never change to fit in. Feels empowering to read even as an adult. An excellent and important message for us all.
No matter who you are - loud, shy, funny, fast, small, adventurous, playful, bookish - the world needs your gifts. You have special things inside you. Being you is never wrong or bad, everyone is different and that's what makes the world such a wonderful place!
Encourages kids to embrace their unique-ness, and never change to fit in. Feels empowering to read even as an adult. An excellent and important message for us all.
October 20, 2018
Thank you to the author for sharing a F and G copy with our #bookexpedition group.
This is a beautifully written and illustrated picture book about celebrating all the things that make us who we are. Told in rhyme, the story encourages its readers to look at what makes them unique & go after their passions a little each day. Pubs 2/5/19, and I’ll definitely be purchasing to share with my 5th grade students as they head off to middle school.
This is a beautifully written and illustrated picture book about celebrating all the things that make us who we are. Told in rhyme, the story encourages its readers to look at what makes them unique & go after their passions a little each day. Pubs 2/5/19, and I’ll definitely be purchasing to share with my 5th grade students as they head off to middle school.
April 17, 2019
What a great book, written for every child. People need to remember that the majority of children selecting a picture book needs an adult to read it to them because they are just learning. This is a great opportunity to discuss the vocabulary and the pictures that go along with it. The fact that it is sing-songy makes it fun for children to listen to. It will also engage them and allow them to try and guess the next rhyming word. It is truly ok to have a picture book with a great message.
September 20, 2019
A gentle title meant to encourage readers to recognize their individuality. It's ok to be bold, sky, quiet or last. I found it clever that the children are marching through the books and reminded me of the saying march to the beat of your own drum! Illustrations are pencil sketches and mixed media then digitally painted and add to this beautiful story. Recommend as a read aloud to a group.
Recommended for Pre-K to 1st Grade
Recommended for Pre-K to 1st Grade
October 5, 2020
There is no one quite in the world like you and that is what makes you so special. This story touches on all the different personalities, perpectives, and individualities that people possess that amke them so unique and special. It sends the message that no matter who you are you are valued, important, and make a difference in this world. I enjoyed the book and thought it was very cute but I did feel like it was missing something for me. But overall still a cute book.
June 6, 2022
I liked this book, it doesn't take your children to gender church. There is true diversity, not just blonde, redheads, black and brown. There Caucasian brunettes which are unicorns in modern children's books today even though they are the majority. It teaches your children that it's okay to be different in many different ways without getting political. God created us all different because he is a designer and an artist.
July 28, 2022
If you are bold and loud... leading a parade could be your goal. If you are timid or shy, imagine what you could learn when you're out and about. Learning the "know-how" and power of being surprised might just lead you into changing the world around you. Seek to repair what's before... don't give up when there are challenges! Use your talents... be funny, bookish, or fast!
Learn to be delightfully you...
MrsK https://mrskbookstogo.blogspot.com/
Learn to be delightfully you...
MrsK https://mrskbookstogo.blogspot.com/
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October 30, 2025From an early childhood education perspective, this book is an excellent tool for promoting social-emotional learning, self-confidence, and positive identity development. It provides opportunities for children to reflect on their own strengths, practice self-affirmation, and recognize the value in themselves and others. The story also fosters empathy, as children see the importance of appreciating differences and celebrating diversity among their peers.
October 10, 2018
I love the strong message to young readers about being you and finding what you can do to help the world. I especially love the vocabulary in the book. I enjoy needing to stop while reading to my class and talk about the meaning of words in a children's picture book. My students love to add those words to their daily life.
Thanks, Pat Zietlow Miller!
Thanks, Pat Zietlow Miller!
February 21, 2019
Read and share best-selling author Pat Zietlow Miller's beautiful book celebrating individuality. Miller's inspirational message is beautifully written in lyrical rhyme. The positive message makes this book perfect for gift-giving for any occasion - birthdays, new baby gift, a milestone event such as graduation, etc. This one is a keeper for your library.
April 2, 2019
This book inspires each one to set the world on fire, being "remarkably you"! Busy, happy children do all kinds of things that they love, having fun inventing and building, gardening and volunteering. Many kids will see themselves on these pages illustrated by Patrice Barton as they listen to or read the poetic text by Miller. End covers include some of the children, too!
April 5, 2019
A perfect rhyming, read-aloud to younger children. This book, with colorful illustrations, shows all kinds of children who are the best at all different kinds of things. It encourages children to bring joy into the world by being themselves, not trying to be like others. It shows how we need all kinds of different people with different gifts to work together and encourage each other!
June 4, 2019
A delightful and joyous celebration of all the things that make each of us unique and memorable. I love the positive message painted on every page with words and pictures. A spirited and gentle reminder to be ourselves, no matter what our passions may be, to share our talents, and to spread our sunshine wherever we go. A perfect gift for all ages.
August 31, 2019
“You could change the world. Are you willing to start?”
No matter who you are or where your talents lie, you can change the world. “Go after your passions a little each day.” Whether you look for things to fix or use your voice to inspire, you can make a difference in this world. It can be big or small, you just have to start down your own path.
Inspiration for kids to make a difference.
No matter who you are or where your talents lie, you can change the world. “Go after your passions a little each day.” Whether you look for things to fix or use your voice to inspire, you can make a difference in this world. It can be big or small, you just have to start down your own path.
Inspiration for kids to make a difference.
October 3, 2019
I really, really loved this book. I think the text makes it a great read for any aged reader and I think it is set up to be a wonderful gift to a young child or older child learning who they are and what their value is. The illustrations are soft and dreamlike - they bring a sense of calmness to the book as you read it. All around, a great and positive read.
January 28, 2020
I'll bet you can guess that this is a book about being yourself. The message is that you have gifts and abilities, and you matter and can make a difference in this world. I especially liked the pages showing kids using their talents and ingenuity to brighten another's day or make the world a nicer place. This would make a really nice gift for a baby shower or a young child's birthday.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews