I am Lupe by Sela Ahosivi-Atiola. Illus. by Yani Agustina

Lupe feels different from her classmates at school. She and her family have moved from a group of islands in the Pacific Ocean, the first people to see the sunrise each day.

Other children ask her who she is, because her skin is brown and hair is black and curly and her eyes are brown. She asks her mother and is told that she is Lupe: a daughter, big sister, and a friend who helps others, she is kind and funny, and fearless. Mother tells her that we can’t always be the same, that our differences make us who we are.

She reminds her that she is unique, there is no one else like her. So the next time someone asks her who she is, she can say that she is Lupe.

This delightful insight into a child who feels different because of the way others see her, is reassured by her parents that she is many things, all of which are positive and empowering. They assure her that she is not defined by how she looks but what she does. Her interaction with others, her relationship with those around her, is the important thing.

The arresting illustrations underline the theme of the book that we all have differences that make us unique.

Tongan Australian author, Sela lives in Sydney and more about her can be found here. More informant about Singaporean illustrator, Yani Agustina can be found here. Teacher's activities can be found on the publisher's website.

Themes: Difference, Pacific Ocean, School.

Fran Knight