I randomly picked up three books from our big pile to read to Alena yesterday and happened to grab two very similar books. This one and the other are both about animals who are sad they aren't the best at one particular thing.
The other book is called Feeling Special. Turtle sees that he's not as good as other animals on one page. You turn the page, Turtle is alone, and it says, "Turtle felt ordinary and sad," every time. This repeats until the ending where he realizes he is special because unlike other animals he is protected from rain in his shell. Ugh. Especially in comparison to this book, it's dark and depressing and lonely.
In this book, Croc lifts rocks, jumps, runs, and does other things that he and Turtle think he does really well until another animal does it better. There are few words said after each discovery, just a discouraged look on Croc's face and a worried look on Turtle's. All along, Turtle is an understanding and encouraging friend. "Yay, go Croc!" he says. The focus is positive and a little humorous. The ending is perfect. "You're the best friend," they both say to each other. It's almost like saying who cares that we're not the best at one thing. They are in it together. The illustrations are fun and light.
Reading the books back to back showed a stark contrast and a lesson. Turtle in the one book is all by himself comparing himself to others. This book shows friends are great! They can encourage you, help you be happier, and help you discover your best abilities. Just wanting to feel special and better than everybody else on your own can be a big downer. Maybe you'll find that one unique thing that's special about you, maybe not.
I'm glad I read both books to see the contrast and learn the lesson.