One of a Kind by Chris Gorman is a striking book that grabs your attention from the other books on the shelf.
Firstly, you will notice that the illustrations are black and white and that the text is set on a background of fluorescent pink and yellow torn paper.
The second striking thing about the book, is the theme. How is the young boy, featured on the cover of the book, one of a kind?
The book reflects on how he is different, 'I'm a kid who's always been a little different.' We discover that he dresses different than the other children because he likes to wear a leather jacket and spike his hair. We discover that he may be different because of the music he listens to and the way he dances like a punk rocker.
While he rejoices in being one of a kind he also feels that '...something is missing.' How does this make him feel? Can being one of a kind be a good thing?
Gorman has written an exquisite story that will speak to your heart. It has the potential to make children stop and think, that it is okay to be different from others and that in time you will find friends that share the same interests as yours.
One of a Kind is visually gorgeous and the message is timeless.
Title: One of a Kind
Author/Illustrator: Chris Gorman
Publisher: Nancy Paulsen Books, $29.99
Publication Date: 30 July 2018
Format: Hard Cover
ISBN: 9781524740627
For ages: 5+
Type: Picture Book