Taku (text), Jason Trevenen (illus), Multicultural Me, Taku Titles, 12 August 2015, 32pp., $14.99 (pbk), ISBN 978 0 9943434 0 6
This most appealing picture book aims to celebrate ‘the cultural diversity and friendship of young people in Australia’. It introduces four children from China, Iraq, Zimbabwe and Australia and, in straightforward language, describes the way they are different in terms of colour, hair, dress, food and religion and, equally important, all the aspects of life that they have in common from having lunch, sharing laughter, loving their families, playing and learning. The text is written with a light touch yet also includes sensitive references to their home cities being different from Australian towns and cities, and to everybody’s dreams and hopes being different. The full page, lively illustrations enhance the message and, combined with the large type and minimal text, would make the book enticing for those for whom English is a second language. Ages 4-9.
Reviewed by Elizabeth Douglas
3 Comments
While my son is only a baby, the simple words and colourful illustrations make this is a favourite of his. I love that the message of friendship means it will stay a favourite.
I have been looking for something to add to Rastamouse books to help my little grandson Jem to relate to people everywhere. Multicultural Me is ideal for him in Australia. Well done Jason and Taku.
Multicultural Me is an exceptional story and journey of children forming friendships in a changing world of increased diversity. Taku and Jason have perfectly captured the essence of forming friendships and the journey of learning about each others’ cultures and differences. This is an important read and one all will surely love and pay forward to others. Congratulations and well done Taku and Jason!