Review of “We Are Different but a Lot Alike” by Linda Guest-Peters

Score: 93/100 (9.3 out of 10)

We might look different. We might have different colored skin. We might have different colored eyes and/or hair. We might be from a different country or follow a different religion. We might come from a different culture. We might wear different clothes or speak a different language. We might like different things. However, we're all human and we can all be friends!

We have a lot more in common as human beings than we often realize.

And that's the heart and center of We Are Different but a Lot Alike by Linda Guest-Peters, a children's book that emphasizes that we may differ in likes and opinions, but we can all find common ground and become friends.

This is a beautiful and powerful message for children. Future generations are becoming more connected and tolerant than ever. Perhaps for the first time in human history, it's finally okay to be yourself rather than to follow the status quo. Choice, individuality, and freedom are not just keys to creativity and innovation, they're also key to happiness.

How many conflict or even wars could have been avoided or prevented if people had just thought about the things that connected them instead of the things that divided them?

We are seeing two large wars, one between Ukraine and Russia and another between Palestinians and Israelis, in which each of the warring groups shares the same ancestry and even similar cultures.

While this book never gets so deep and broad, it has deep and broad implications.

We very much enjoyed its inclusive and friendly message!

On a micro level, this book could also serve to teach kids how we all don't need to like and enjoy the same things. Just because Bobby likes skateboards but Jimmy likes bicycles is no reason for them to argue and fight—they can do them both and enjoy them both! Just because Tabitha likes popcorn but Jessica likes nachos doesn't mean they should argue and fight—they can eat and enjoy them both!

We also enjoyed the art, though it isn't as bright, vibrant, and impressive as art in other children's books this year. The main thing is that it accomplished its purpose.

Check it out on Amazon!