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We’re The Same, We’re Different and We All Belong

By KayJay Miller

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Spunky, multi-racial, Marnie recognizes that despite our differences we all share similarities and have our own unique story. What is yours?

Synopsis

In her own heartwarming, hilarious words, Marnie, a spunky multiracial kindergartener, explores the concept of diversity. She finds that differences (e.g. race, size, accent, learning styles, ways of moving around etc.) are only one part of a person's unique story.

Jacket copy:
Meet Marnie! She’s three and three-quarters feet tall, her skin is the color of Mama's banana bread, and she can do lots of cool styles with her hair. She also has the funniest jokes, and she’s extra brave on the monkey bars. Oh, and did she mention she wants to be a superhero when she grows up? There are so many things that make Marnie who she is—and she wants to know all of the things that make you who you are, too!

This engaging, interactive picture book asks readers a series of heartwarming, hilarious questions alongside a spunky main character, and gracefully illustrates that the best friendships can be made when we love what’s different (and the same) about each other.

Marnie, who is now six years old, is proud to be considered a big girl. She wants you to realize that you are as unique as she is. Our unique stories are shaped by many factors including our skin color, our abilities, and our preferred foods. Unfortunately, there are individuals who fail to appreciate diversity.


Marnie has a mixed racial background. Her mother is an immigrant from Jamaica. Her father hails from America and has a mixed heritage of Polish and Irish. At school, Marnie learns an important life lesson like many other children. Others may treat her rudely because of her appearance. Marnie feels sad because of this.


With her mother's aid, Marnie is able to make sense of this struggle. We’re the same, we’re different, and we all belong. Showing kindness to people who look different from you is essential. Don't overlook the fact that they also see you in a different light. In her own charming way, Marnie demonstrates how youngsters can socialize and problem solve appropriately.


Asking questions to make new friends is a valuable interpersonal skill she teaches. It helps us to understand people better and learn that looks are only skin deep. Always remember that when you meet someone for the first time, they are a unique individual with their own thoughts and emotions, and they could be very similar to you.


We're The Same, We're Different And We All Belong is an amazing fiction story that covers various important topics such as individual differences, disability awareness, life skills and much more, making it perfect for kids of all ages to learn from.

Miller's spirited story is a reminder that our differences are what make the world a better place, even in times when skin color and religion can cause divisions.


I love the illustrations! You can't ignore how remarkable they are - crisp, clear, and vibrant. The illustrations are so detailed that the characters seem to jump off the pages. Marnie's banana bread skin tone and thick, curly hair make her relatable and adorable to all children, especially those with diverse backgrounds.


Reviewed by

Hello, I'm a Pre-K Head Start Teacher, who writes and reviews children's picture books. I exclusively review children's picture books because I use my teacher hat to analyze the story and how it could be applied in the classroom.

Synopsis

In her own heartwarming, hilarious words, Marnie, a spunky multiracial kindergartener, explores the concept of diversity. She finds that differences (e.g. race, size, accent, learning styles, ways of moving around etc.) are only one part of a person's unique story.

Jacket copy:
Meet Marnie! She’s three and three-quarters feet tall, her skin is the color of Mama's banana bread, and she can do lots of cool styles with her hair. She also has the funniest jokes, and she’s extra brave on the monkey bars. Oh, and did she mention she wants to be a superhero when she grows up? There are so many things that make Marnie who she is—and she wants to know all of the things that make you who you are, too!

This engaging, interactive picture book asks readers a series of heartwarming, hilarious questions alongside a spunky main character, and gracefully illustrates that the best friendships can be made when we love what’s different (and the same) about each other.

KayJay Millerover 1 year ago
The book's live on Amazon (finally)!!!! It's https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CJWTXYSN  (paperback and hardcover following shortly :-)

1 Comment

samantha pillayGreetings, I am interested in establishing connections with fellow children's book authors. If you would also like to stay informed about my new releases please follow back. Warm regards, Sam
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over 1 year ago
About the author

KayJay Miller has been... a Caribbean child dancing in full carnival costume, an Oxford student cycling everywhere and an award-winning writer (theater, film and children's TV). She is now Mom to an amazing, cheeky 5 year old and an author of kids' books that are a force for good. view profile

Published on August 23, 2023

Published by Force For Good Media

0-1000 words

Genre:Picture Books

Reviewed by