Do you feel you are different from other kids? Do they make fun of you or call you names? In this book, You and Me: Different yet the Same, we learn that yes, we are all different and that is ok, yet we are also all the same in some ways. From the bully at school to the shy child, one of the most important things we want is to have a friend. As we see the difference in these 24 kids inside this book, we find that they all ask the same question, Will you be my friend?
Author: Lynnda Robinson
Illustrator: Ronaldo Florendo
Pages: 34
Language: English
Size: 8.5 x 11"
 
 
5.0 out of 5 stars A Heart-Warming Story - Christine Cazes
Reviewed in the United States on August 20, 2020
"You and Me: Different yet the Same," is a clever children's book that sends a powerful message. All the characters in this story are 10 years old who represent 24 different nations. The author writes 24 textual clips introducing each child from a different country who deals with a specific disorder or disability. Each child just wants to be accepted and asks, "Will you be my friend?"

Nick, the Gnome, claims the book and promises to be each child's friend. Each child responds, "Thank you!" or "Thank you very much!" in their own language. It's also a lot of fun trying to find Nick on each page! It's like "Where's Nick, the Gnome?" Readers also get to learn about various disorders or difficulties that some children experience. They get to witness some children sitting in a wheelchair or stuttering, and others feeling like a nerd or different. Language is heightened as the writer introduces new vocabulary like "Braille," "alopecia," "diabetic."

Each page also gives young readers the opportunity to learn the meaning of each character's name. The little boy from Uganda says his name, Aren, means eagle, and the little girl from Ireland, Morrigan, says her name means war goddess. This lovely book teaches young readers that "no one is perfect." The author teaches, "We all have a body, and within the body, we have a heart."

Kudos to the author for writing a well researched, lovely multicultural book that teaches an important lesson, and the illustrator for portraying colorful pictures that highlight each nation's dress and culture. As a reading specialist in the public school setting, I highly recommend this book to parents and teachers who want to introduce the importance of diversity and respect.
 
 
5.0 out of 5 stars Well thoughtful children’s book - LaTonya B
This book gained my attention just from initially flipping through the first few pages. It admittedly grasps my attention by displaying a map of the world. I wanted to know more.
Being a health professional who passionately work with children, ”You and Me: Different yet the Same” truly hit a soft spot in my heart. It highlights medical, mental, and physical disabilities that shouldn’t differentiate anyone from being accepted or being bullied. It's a book that promotes positivity, self-awareness, and friendships. This story hit important vital points that are helpful for children to learn early on.
I would highly recommend. This is a wonderful read for anyone.
 
 
5.0 out of 5 stars Such an important book for children - D-Rod
This is a really great book, teaching children that being different is a good thing. Sometimes people look different or have disabilities and that’s ok, they are still people, who want many of the same things in life, most importantly acceptance and love! I also love that several countries are discussed in this sweet book. It really touched a soft spot in my heart!