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The Only Me
Be the best you! Stella and Paige are 7-year-old fraternal twins who don't look or act alike. They have very different personalities and interests. Despite that, people constantly compare them or comment about how strange it is that they're not similar. They may be twins, but they’re not the same person! Stella wishes people would see her for who she is. She is tired of being referred to as “Stella and Paige,” or “one of the twins.” This treatment continuously causes her to feel frustrated and question her importance. All of the comparing and contrasting leaves Stella confused about her identity and wondering who she is outside of her sibling relationship. Sadly, she also wonders if she doesn't measure up to her sister, Paige, the more outgoing twin. Can Stella find a way to accept and value herself for who she is? Will she realize they can each have their own unique personality and still be twins?
Why readers will fall in love with The Only Me :
Why readers will fall in love with The Only Me :
35 pages, Paperback
Published August 18, 2022
3 people are currently reading
11 people want to read
About the author
Marissa Bader
4 books12 followersMarissa Bader is a Minneapolis-based children’s book author and writer with a background in mental health. She’s the author of The Only Me, Stella’s Brave Voice, and Petunia the Perfectionist—heartfelt stories inspired by her three daughters that celebrate self-confidence, courage, and emotional growth. Her newest book, Saturdays with Gramps, explores grief and loss through the tender lens of a child-grandparent relationship.
In addition to writing for kids, Marissa pens personal essays on parenting and mental health, with work featured in Psychology Today, HuffPost Parents, Time Out New York, and more. When she’s not writing, you’ll likely find her sipping coffee, having kitchen dance parties, or dreaming up her next story.
To learn more about Marissa, explore free resources, or invite her for an author visit, visit her website at MarissaBader.com, and follow her on Instagram @MarissaBaderWriter
In addition to writing for kids, Marissa pens personal essays on parenting and mental health, with work featured in Psychology Today, HuffPost Parents, Time Out New York, and more. When she’s not writing, you’ll likely find her sipping coffee, having kitchen dance parties, or dreaming up her next story.
To learn more about Marissa, explore free resources, or invite her for an author visit, visit her website at MarissaBader.com, and follow her on Instagram @MarissaBaderWriter
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
September 1, 2022
Though this book is about twins, the story shares a universal message that all children need to hear.
Stella, a fraternal twin, feels she is constantly compared to her sibling. She feels some people expect her to look like her twin, or to be more like her sister. Many times she and her sister receive the style of clothing even though they have very different tastes.
These types of things make Stella feel like she is just one-half of a whole especially when she is referred to as the twin when people can’t remember her name.
While her thoughts may not always be what people are really feeling toward her, they are real for Stella. She needs to hear that it is important to celebrate the special individual that she is.
Whether you have twins, children who are close in age, or a child who compares himself to a friend, this book conveys a message that kids need to hear. And the colorful illustrations are sure to help bring this message to life for children.
Final Thoughts
This story is a wonderful reminder for all ages that we are special and unique just as we are. And for adults who are reading the book, let’s help twins celebrate that they are lucky enough to be connected in a special way to their sibling, but that they are each unique individuals.
This is an easy thumbs-up.
My thanks to the author and RockStarBookTours for a copy of this book and the ability to post my honest thoughts.
Stella, a fraternal twin, feels she is constantly compared to her sibling. She feels some people expect her to look like her twin, or to be more like her sister. Many times she and her sister receive the style of clothing even though they have very different tastes.
These types of things make Stella feel like she is just one-half of a whole especially when she is referred to as the twin when people can’t remember her name.
While her thoughts may not always be what people are really feeling toward her, they are real for Stella. She needs to hear that it is important to celebrate the special individual that she is.
Whether you have twins, children who are close in age, or a child who compares himself to a friend, this book conveys a message that kids need to hear. And the colorful illustrations are sure to help bring this message to life for children.
Final Thoughts
This story is a wonderful reminder for all ages that we are special and unique just as we are. And for adults who are reading the book, let’s help twins celebrate that they are lucky enough to be connected in a special way to their sibling, but that they are each unique individuals.
This is an easy thumbs-up.
My thanks to the author and RockStarBookTours for a copy of this book and the ability to post my honest thoughts.
August 28, 2022
This is a great book for kids who are trying to find where they belong and how they fit in with others. It teaches us to embrace our differences and see our uniqueness as being something that is wonderful. No matter what, kids are going to compare themselves to others and wonder why they aren’t as good as someone else. This book helps us understand that sometimes you aren’t the best at something but you may be the best at something else. This was the perfect book for my son because as he is now playing sports, the topic of wanting to be better than other kids comes up often. I have to keep reminding him of the moral of this book, you are the only you. Your best doesn’t mean the same thing as someone else's best. And from my daughters favorite TV show - “your best is the best for you”
October 10, 2022
Good message and beautifully illustrated
I enjoyed reading this book to my daughter's. I have 3 who are all unique and look very different. I love the message about not worrying about other people's thoughts and knowing they are not in your control. I love that the illustrations are inclusive and diverse. Perfect children's book!
I enjoyed reading this book to my daughter's. I have 3 who are all unique and look very different. I love the message about not worrying about other people's thoughts and knowing they are not in your control. I love that the illustrations are inclusive and diverse. Perfect children's book!
September 3, 2022
This is a really good book for kids whether twins or not. Lovely story!
September 5, 2022
Stella and Paige are twin sisters. One has brown hair and the other has blonde hair. Stella loves her sister but has a hard time coping when people try to lump them together as if they were one person. Her aunt Josie buys them twin outfits each year for their birthdays and the soccer coach refers to them as one by their last names.
Stella began to doubt that she could be her own person and have things she was good at like her sister Paige. She knew there were a lot of things Paige did that were good like throwing a ball harder, she got invited to all of the birthday parties and her handwriting was the best too. Stella took a moment to think of the things she did well, and one thing came to mind, she gave the best hugs, and all of her friends told her so. But is there more to Stella than that?
Author Marissa Bader has created a great book that shares how to be your own person especially if you are a twin. Colorful and lively illustrations by Arlene Soto are fun and engaging. Parents and teachers can use this as a tool to teach young readers about being themselves and finding what they do best.
Stella began to doubt that she could be her own person and have things she was good at like her sister Paige. She knew there were a lot of things Paige did that were good like throwing a ball harder, she got invited to all of the birthday parties and her handwriting was the best too. Stella took a moment to think of the things she did well, and one thing came to mind, she gave the best hugs, and all of her friends told her so. But is there more to Stella than that?
Author Marissa Bader has created a great book that shares how to be your own person especially if you are a twin. Colorful and lively illustrations by Arlene Soto are fun and engaging. Parents and teachers can use this as a tool to teach young readers about being themselves and finding what they do best.
October 24, 2022
When people think of twins, they often think of people who look and act alike. Some see twins as exactly the same person, but everyone is unique, no matter if they’re a twin or not.
In this meaningful picture book, The Only Me, by Marissa Bader, we are introduced to Stella, the narrator of the story, and her twin sister, Paige. They are twins, but they don’t look alike, and even though they have some similar interests, they are two very different people.
Stella gets frustrated when people treat them as the same person or when people make comments about wondering how they’re twins because they look nothing alike and are so different.
She starts to get down on herself when she thinks of all the ways Paige seems better than her. Stella must work through her frustration to embrace her own uniqueness.
Opinion:
The Only Me is a fantastic book for children to read as they learn to embrace who they are. Each child is uniquely gifted, and this book showcases that. No matter the genetics a person shares with someone else, each one of us is our own person.
My own children are a year a half apart, and they are often mistaken as twins. Even though they are both girls, they have their own interests, and it’s beautiful to watch them develop their own personalities and passions. Just like people bought Stella and Paige matching outfits (to their dismay), the same has happened with my girls – but they like different colors and styles.
The author, Marissa Bader, has a master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, and she focuses on parenthood and mental health. That experience and passion is seamlessly woven into this book. Her own children were the inspiration for The Only Me. This book is engaging and informative. It is well-structured and relatable.
The illustrations by Arlene Soto enhance the story and capture the rollercoaster of emotions Stella experiences.
This book lends itself very nicely to classroom and family discussions about celebrating our differences and embracing our individuality – no matter what people expect of us.
In this meaningful picture book, The Only Me, by Marissa Bader, we are introduced to Stella, the narrator of the story, and her twin sister, Paige. They are twins, but they don’t look alike, and even though they have some similar interests, they are two very different people.
Stella gets frustrated when people treat them as the same person or when people make comments about wondering how they’re twins because they look nothing alike and are so different.
She starts to get down on herself when she thinks of all the ways Paige seems better than her. Stella must work through her frustration to embrace her own uniqueness.
Opinion:
The Only Me is a fantastic book for children to read as they learn to embrace who they are. Each child is uniquely gifted, and this book showcases that. No matter the genetics a person shares with someone else, each one of us is our own person.
My own children are a year a half apart, and they are often mistaken as twins. Even though they are both girls, they have their own interests, and it’s beautiful to watch them develop their own personalities and passions. Just like people bought Stella and Paige matching outfits (to their dismay), the same has happened with my girls – but they like different colors and styles.
The author, Marissa Bader, has a master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, and she focuses on parenthood and mental health. That experience and passion is seamlessly woven into this book. Her own children were the inspiration for The Only Me. This book is engaging and informative. It is well-structured and relatable.
The illustrations by Arlene Soto enhance the story and capture the rollercoaster of emotions Stella experiences.
This book lends itself very nicely to classroom and family discussions about celebrating our differences and embracing our individuality – no matter what people expect of us.
January 10, 2023
The Only Me is a must read for all parents of multiples. The book follows a set of twins who are constantly compared by others and just want to be seen as their own person.
This book really hit home for my twin girls who are completely different, but people often group them as one. Since starting school one of my girls felt like she was not as good as her sister, but this book helped her see that she shines and excels in her own way.
The story emphasizes that twins are not the same and both have attributes worth celebrating. Some multiples like to dress and act the same where others do not, but either way it is important to know they are individuals. Well done to the author for writing this much needed story for siblings like mine. The Only Me belongs on every twin parent’s bookshelf!
This book really hit home for my twin girls who are completely different, but people often group them as one. Since starting school one of my girls felt like she was not as good as her sister, but this book helped her see that she shines and excels in her own way.
The story emphasizes that twins are not the same and both have attributes worth celebrating. Some multiples like to dress and act the same where others do not, but either way it is important to know they are individuals. Well done to the author for writing this much needed story for siblings like mine. The Only Me belongs on every twin parent’s bookshelf!
December 7, 2022
This meaningful book is not only beautifully illustrated and well written, it also contains powerful messages for kids and parents. It teaches the importance of honouring our differences, helps kids struggling with identity and self-esteem, and also supports kids with finding where they belong. The author speaks with the voice of a young child which makes this book perfectly relatable and authentic for young readers. Highly recommend!
January 2, 2023
The book was extremely insightful into both the world of twins and all types of family dynamics… the author skillfully shows kids the importance and richness of recognizing your own strengths and what you contribute to the others around you. Her sensitivity to inclusion, building self esteem and importance of feeling a valuable part of one’s family makes this a must read for our kids and their parents. As a retired educator and TWIN… I highly recommend this to all librarians…
February 12, 2025
The Only Me is a child friendly children’s picture book by Marissa Bader and beautifully illustrated by Arlene Soto. The Only Me is about two sisters that happen to be twins. They don’t look alike or like the same things. Stella, the sister telling the story wonders if her sister Paige is better than her. Is comparing each other good? Find out more in this beautiful and deep meaning picture book. I highly recommend it.⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
August 14, 2025
Finding our strengths
Don’t we all compare ourselves to others? Even as an adult, I’m guilty of doing this. This book is geared towards children to find their strengths. However, I found it relevant as an adult as well.
Paired with bright and colorful illustrations, enjoy the story of a young lady who discovers she is wonderful as she is without comparing herself to anyone else.
Highly recommended for those learning about the value of self-esteem.
Don’t we all compare ourselves to others? Even as an adult, I’m guilty of doing this. This book is geared towards children to find their strengths. However, I found it relevant as an adult as well.
Paired with bright and colorful illustrations, enjoy the story of a young lady who discovers she is wonderful as she is without comparing herself to anyone else.
Highly recommended for those learning about the value of self-esteem.
December 10, 2022
Both of my kids loved this story! My 7 year old daughter really connected with both characters and appreciated how the author emphasized not comparing siblings, but appreciating everyone for who they are. It sparkled great bedtime conversation for our family and has become a constant in our rotation of bedtime stories. The illustrations are adorable too! Highly recommend!
January 12, 2023
I have followed the author, Marissa Bader, for a while. She emanates joy and curiosity. As a mother of 3 kids (though not multiples), I am always trying to genuinely see my children and to help them find out where they belong. This book has such a beautiful message about belonging. A must read for all, including (but not limited to) the little ones in your life!
January 24, 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! The Only Me deals with comparison, thoughtfulness and self worth. While the book comes from the perspective of a twin and how that dynamic relates to all these topics, it is a book anyone can relate to. I also appreciate that this book can grow with children leading to deeper conversations and introspection. Would definitely recommend!
June 7, 2023
This adorable book explores the mind of a twin as she struggles to differentiate herself from her twin sister. See what realizations she comes to as she depicts their separate personalities and talents. The illustrations are very colorful and pleasing to the eye. Children will identify with this story as they all are in search for their own individuality.
March 19, 2024
Celebrating Twins Individuality
Frequently, the identity of twins merge into a single unit and overshadows their individuality. As an identical twin, I found the internal conflict of maintaining individuality while embracing unity accurately depicted. This story shines all around in both narrative and illustrations, making it a real winner.
Frequently, the identity of twins merge into a single unit and overshadows their individuality. As an identical twin, I found the internal conflict of maintaining individuality while embracing unity accurately depicted. This story shines all around in both narrative and illustrations, making it a real winner.
December 12, 2022
This was such a warm and sweet book. My daughter and I loved it. I recommend it for all twins, all siblings, and any child who feels they are being labeled. It has a really positive and important message.
January 5, 2023
I’m not a twin, but my sister and I are only 14 months apart and we were compared ALL the time. We always got the same clothes, toys, the same room, etc. I’m so glad there’s finally a book to help parents realize that their kids are all different and deserve to have those differences highlighted.
July 30, 2023
Great book for twins!
The Only Me is a great story for those who feel like they are trapped in someone else’s shadow, or lumped together with others because they are related. It celebrates the differences in everyone and reminds kids that we are all unique and special.
The Only Me is a great story for those who feel like they are trapped in someone else’s shadow, or lumped together with others because they are related. It celebrates the differences in everyone and reminds kids that we are all unique and special.
February 12, 2025
Difference make us special
This would be great book for twins or siblings or anybody feeling like they’re not special. We too often compare ourselves to others forgetting that we’re all unique in our own way. This book is a great highlight of that! Really enjoyed this book!
This would be great book for twins or siblings or anybody feeling like they’re not special. We too often compare ourselves to others forgetting that we’re all unique in our own way. This book is a great highlight of that! Really enjoyed this book!
December 10, 2022
I love that this book celebrates the differences in twins! All too often we focus on the similarities rather than celebrating the differences. Bravo!
December 10, 2022
Adorable book! Sends a wonderful message about being true to who you are and that no one is the same. Good for all age kids as a reminder to be true to yourself.
December 11, 2022
Such a wonderful book with a great message. I love this one. And so do my kids.
December 18, 2022
Such a sweet book about kindness and individuality!
January 2, 2023
My daughters love this book! The message is spot on and a great read for any child - twin or singleton, only child or sibling.
May 18, 2023
I got this book for my friends daughter's. My friend, "Let's hope there isn't a sequel". Haha, after she said that, I read it myself. Sad to say, I thought the same thing.
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September 20, 2023Excellent message
The message that just.because your different from someone doesn't mean they or you are better than the other is a good one. Illustrations are cute
The message that just.because your different from someone doesn't mean they or you are better than the other is a good one. Illustrations are cute
January 4, 2023
As an identical twin my inner child identifies with this book! Great read for all families. Great illustrations as well.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews