One of a Kind

“A picture-book celebration of individuality and community. An affirming, first-person text is paired with digitally manipulated photo art to follow the narrator through contemplations about what it means to be ‘a little different.’ . . . Throughout, the child listens to music, dances, and drums, developing the character as a pint-sized punk rocker. . . . It isn’t always easy. ‘I like being one of a kind’ reads one spread with the child exultant at a drum set, but a page turn shifts the tone and leads up to the line ‘It can be lonely and frustrating!’ with the child now sitting dejectedly on a front stoop. . . . Race is never named, and illustrations can be read as presenting the narrator and one other child as kids of color, though skin color isn’t apparent, with just the white of the page and some shading. Rock on, kids!.”—Kirkus Reviews

“As in his picture book Indi Surfs, Gorman alters black-and-white photographic images to make striking halftones with rich black shadows. The text is laid out on torn paper scraps of pink and yellow, in the style of Sex Pistols album art. . . . Readers whose unconventional tastes are at odds with the authorities will enjoy his energy and self-assurance.”—Publishers Weekly

“The stark contrast in colors on each page could represent the intense feelings of the protagonist enjoying his independence and interests while still feeling isolated. Gorman has penned an exceedingly relatable book and most readers will connect with the protagonist’s dilemma, regardless of their music tastes. . . . A must-have wherever music, especially punk rock, is ­popular.”—School Library Journal

“Bold, vibrant design showcases the child’s emotions in this picture book with a perennial message of self-acceptance.”—Booklist