It’s Okay to Be Different
Book Summary:
It’s Okay to Be Different celebrates individuality by presenting a joyful array of people and feelings through bold illustrations and simple text. The book encourages children to embrace their unique qualities—whether it’s needing help, feeling embarrassed, or having a different appearance—and to accept others exactly as they are. Its playful approach reassures young readers that differences are normal, valuable, and worth celebrating.
Recommended Questions:
What was your favorite way the author and illustrator showed that it’s okay to be different? Why did it stand out to you?
Why do you think the author wanted to write this story? What message do you think was most important to share?
How does this book help us understand ourselves and other people better?
How can this book help you think about people who might look, act, or feel differently from you?
Can you think of a time when you felt different from others? How did that feel, and how might this book help you explain it to someone else?
If you were going to add your own page to this book, what would you write for “It’s okay to…” and how would you illustrate it?
Do you think this book is just for kids? Or do you think it’s also a good reminder for adults to accept differences?
NCSS Theme 4: Individual Development and Identity
This helps children recognize and value their own distinct traits and emotions, as well as those of others. Through affirming statements about differences, it supports learners in exploring self‑understanding, confidence, and empathy—key components of how individuals form meaning and interact in society.
Social Justice Anchor Standard 1: Positive Social Identities
The book affirms that people can differ in many ways—including appearance, family structure, emotions, abilities, and interests—and still be valued for who they are. By normalizing different identities and experiences in a positive, affirming way, it supports students’ understanding of their own and others’ identities and fosters respect and belonging
WA Social Studies Skills 1: Uses critical reasoning skills to analyze and evaluate claims
It’s Okay to Be Different invites students to think critically about commonly held ideas of “normal.” By considering why the book emphasizes that all kinds of differences are okay, students can analyze assumptions about identity and evaluate claims about how people should behave or look. This supports the development of reasoning skills about social perceptions and personal identity
