My Guncle and Me
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- $9.99
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- $9.99
Publisher Description
This celebration of individuality and inclusivity reminds young readers that what makes them different is what makes them special.
In this inclusive and heartwarming picture book by award-winning writer Jonathan Merritt, Henry Higgleston struggles with being deemed an oddball by the other kids at school. But when his fabulous gay uncle arrives for a weekend with his pup Jimmy Chew in tow, Guncle is on a mission to teach Henry that what makes him different makes him special. This joyful story that celebrates family and self-acceptance will make every kid feel seen and loved.
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
Henry Higgleston, sporting glasses and a green dinosaur hoodie, feels out of place at school, where "how I walk, talk, and dress/ Makes me seem so uncool." This changes with a weekend visit from Henry's "most fabulous/ Relative// my guncle" and his pup Jimmy Chew. The stay involves the relative listening to and comforting Henry, providing activities including a dance party and zoo visit, and modeling self-confidence at church. Departing with advice ("Keep being yourself/ Even when you are grown"), Henry's guncle inspires the child to both be themself and connect with others. Pastel-hued illustrations from Carillo reinforce the gentle encouragement of Merritt's rigorously rhyming couplets, which occasionally incorporate religious undertones (Henry communicates that "you can be who God made you,/ Whatever you are"). Throughout, what's undeniable is the powerful love shown by Henry's guncle, and the way spending time with a beloved role model can make all the difference. Protagonists are portrayed with pale skin; background characters have various skin tones. Ages 4–8.
