Just Because We're Different

by Hannah Mwangi

Eddie Elephant has never seen anyone like Jake Giraffe before. Jake is different from Eddie in so many ways. What should Eddie think of Jake? How should Eddie feel toward Jake? What should Eddie do around Jake? Eddie imagines many different silly possibilities until he realizes that the only way to spark a real friendship is to actually speak to Jake, spend time with him, and get to know him. Explore the wonder and possibility of new friendships and the art of including and accepting others as you enjoy the heartwarming story of Just Because We’re Different.The illustrations in Just Because We’re Different are mixed media—print, gouache, collage, and digital art. The characters are cut from current event news articles that exemplify the extreme of what happens when we meet the differences we see in others with destructive attitudes rather than meeting them with love. My desire is for these illustrations to remind us of the choice that we have—we can paint over one another’s stories with the broad brush of prejudice and remain ignorant, or we can choose to move closer to one another and listen in love and compassion.Children are so smart—they absorb much more than we think. My hope is that this book provides children with tools and practice to meet differences in others with curiosity and love rather than aversion and hatred. I also hope that this book and its accompanying resources help parents and educators create a safe and open space to have difficult yet age-appropriate conversations with children. For more resources and to join the community of champions for diversity, join the #JustDifferentMovement. Visit www.hannahmwangi.com/books for more info.

32 pages, Paperback

Published October 20, 2020

Reviews

[Andy Zach · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm delighted by this children's book and I'm 64. So many diversity books are prescriptive and preachy but this one is common-sensical and funny. It's simple enough for children to 'get it', but thoughtful enough to satisfy grownups.

Now, if we can only get grownups to read it . . .

[Cassi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Adorable story, with a great message. We can still love one another even though we're different. Mwangi does a fantastic job engaging the reader with beautiful artwork.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful

A great simple book for helping children understand the mixed feelings that come with meeting someone who is different. It doesn't shy away from the sad choices people often make, but presents them in a way a child can understand (and may have witnessed). A great book for Peculiar People Day, or any day. The artwork is deceptively simple and a good inspiration for a child's own project.

[jennifer l longstreth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Adorable

GORGEOUS book! Loved the art...words were simple and perfect.. ADORABLE! Highly recommend for all kids!!! and adults for that matter....😍

[M.E. Reach · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a cute story with a necessary message about how we should treat one another. My kids read it often.