Book Review: One of a Kind by Ariel S. Winter

One of a Kind by Ariel S. Winter and Illustrated by David Hitch
Published by Aladdin
Pages: 32
Ages: 4-7
Buy It: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Simon & Schuster | Powell’s Books | Indiebound | Book Depository
Publishers Summary:

In this wry and witty picture book, an only child learns that in a classroom of multiples, individuality can be awesome.
All the kids in Lysander Singleton’s class are either twins or triplets, which means Lysander Singleton is the only “only child” at Twin Oaks Elementary. He tries to do what he can to fit in—making photocopies of himself, or attempting to play games with the other kids—though his efforts are usually met with unfortunate results.
But when it comes time for the schoolwide Twindividuation competition, a series of events meant to encourage individuality, Lysander quickly realizes that being the only “only child” does have its advantages—and that being unique isn’t such a bad thing after all.

Turkeybird Sums It Up: Did you know I just started school?! It’s the most super cool thing ever. I love my class and my teacher and my friends and most of all I love the playground!

What has been hard has been making more friends. I have one friend that I knew from church, but there are lots and lots of kids in my new class I don’t know and it’s kind of scary. I like that the kid in this book isn’t scared and tries to do silly stuff like make copies of himself on the copy maker. That would be super super neat! I’m kind of quiet like the boy in the book at first too but he ends up winning a big trophy in the end! I would really like that! And I like that he has lots and lots of friends by the end who all like being different like he is. Maybe I’ll have my teacher read this book in my class now too!

Mom’s Two Cents: Does everyone fit in everywhere? In Lysander Singleton’s case it simply doesn’t apply. In a classroom full to the brim with twins who each compliment each other and make the perfect pair Lysander’s non-twin existence simply isn’t cutting it. As he attempts to conform in anyway possible he soon discovers that what the class may need is someone as singularly individual as he happens to be. In the end it isn’t how similar he is to everyone else that matters, it’s his differences that make him shine above the rest.

First of all a disclaimer, I met Ariel S. Winter while waiting in line for a signing with Bob Shea at BEA this year. Yes, it was phenomenal to say the least! Not only was it a fantastic signing, but on top of it I was able to stand and chat with Ariel for over half an hour. He’s incredible and also runs a blog called We Too Were Children that focuses on children’s books written by authors that are usually recognized for their “adult” writing first. Many of the titles he explores are also out of print. It’s a fantastic site and Ariel, in addition to being children’s book author is also a adult crime novelist, so you can imagine how much fun we had talking while waiting for the signing.

One of a Kind by Ariel S. Winter was a fantastic picture book read, especially for the Turkeybird. With his recent venture into the world of kindergarten the theme of individuality was certainly one that needed attention and will be one I’m sure will pop up again as time goes on. Not only was the theme fantastic, but I loved the concept of an individual child being placed in a setting full of twins. Can you imagine? So often children enter new settings where the other kids around them already have established friendships and a familiarity with their surroundings. When you’re the new kid that can make things incredibly difficult. One of a Kind absolutely addresses this not only from the angle of the individual, but from the outside looking in making it accessible and easy to learn from for all children.

In a world of duplicates and already established friendships Lysander Singleton struggles to find where he fits in. One of a Kind by Ariel S. Winter not only addresses those tough situations, but also shares with kiddos the importance of being yourself despite your circumstances. Also, it goes without saying, but the illustrations by David Hitch were fantastic and the perfect match for the story being told. Ariel S. Winter is a fantastic new author to the picture book scene and certainly one our family hopes to see more from!

The1stdaughter Recommends: Ages 4-10. Focusing on individuality and acceptance, Ariel S. Winter makes a strong debut with his wonderful new picture book. Perfect reading for new students and possibly even kiddos who have recently moved to a new town or city.

Find One of a Kind by Ariel S. Winter and Illustrated by David Hitch at the following spots:
Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Simon & Schuster | Powell’s Books | Indiebound | Book Depository | Goodreads

This book was purchased for our home library.
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