Description
THIS IS NOT NORMAL!
Book Summary
A picture book in Catalan that addresses diversity and acceptance through the story of an elephant with an extraordinarily long trunk. While he uses his peculiarity to help his friends, the hippopotamus constantly mocks him with the phrase "This is not normal!". The work invites young and old readers alike to reflect on what it truly means to be "normal" and to value differences as a richness, not a defect.
What is it about?
The story follows an elephant whose trunk is much longer than usual. Far from being a problem, this feature allows him to help his friends in the forest in various everyday situations. However, the hippopotamus insists on pointing out that this length is not "normal," constantly questioning the elephant's difference. Through this dynamic, the book presents a simple yet profound dilemma: who decides what is normal? The narrative, with a gentle tone and a positive outcome, shows how empathy and understanding can overcome prejudice, and how what is initially perceived as strange can become something valuable and unique.
Main themes
- Diversity and acceptance of physical and personal differences.
- Critique of stereotypes and the social pressure to be "normal."
- Empathy and respect for others, beyond appearances.
- Self-esteem and appreciation of one's own qualities.
- Friendship and collaboration between diverse characters.
Who is it recommended for?
Recommended for boys and girls from 3-4 years old, as well as for families and educators looking for a resource to talk about diversity, respect, and inclusion in a natural and accessible way. It is also an ideal reading for working on managing bullying and building a positive self-image in childhood.
What this book offers
- A playful and visual tool to start conversations about diversity and normality.
- An empowering message that teaches children to value their own unique characteristics.
- A story that fosters empathy and discourages teasing those who are different.
- An entertaining read with attractive illustrations that reinforce the message.
Technical data
- Author: DU FAY, LAURE; PAVON (CAT), MAR
- Publisher: NubeOcho
- Language: cat
- Subject: PICTURE BOOKS, ACTIVITY BOOKS AND SUBJECT MATTER, PICTURE ALBUMS
- Collection: EGALITE
- Binding: Hardcover
- Publication date: February 2021
- Number of pages: 40
- Weight: 176 g
Editorial review
This is a picture book with a clear and necessary focus for childhood: the celebration of diversity. The story, simple but effective, uses the repetition of the refrain "Això no és normal!" to generate a contrast between the critical gaze of the hippopotamus and the constructive attitude of the elephant. Its inclusion in the prestigious The White Ravens list endorses its literary and illustrative quality. It is a title especially useful for school libraries, early childhood classrooms, and families committed to values-based education, as it offers an excellent starting point for debating difference and acceptance without falling into moralizing.