The Children’s Book Review | December 19, 2016
Written and Illustrated by Anna Shuttlewood
Age Range: 3-6
Paperback: 24 pages
Publisher: QEB Publishing (2016)
ISBN: 978-1682970164
What to expect: animals, emotions, diversity
I’m the Happiest is a heartwarming story about a lovable raccoon who enthusiastically celebrates everyone’s differences and best qualities.
The story begins on a sunny day when the raccoon and all of his friends come together. A giraffe starts bragging about his height and how useful it is to be tall. The giraffe’s behavior leads the other animals to stretch their necks in an attempt to become tall as well. After many unsuccessful attempts, the animals begin to sulk that they are not tall like the giraffe. However, the giraffe’s bragging does not bother the raccoon, who begins jumping and clapping his hands to show the other animals how happy he is for the tall giraffe. Soon the other animals start bragging about their best traits and how their differences make them better or prettier than the other animals. This interaction upsets all of the animals who become more and more jealous of one another. Meanwhile, the raccoon couldn’t be happier. All of the things that make each of his friends different make raccoon jubilant. Eventually, raccoon’s happiness rubs off on his buddies, who are happy to see their friend so joyful.
Anna Shuttlewood’s story is an excellent example of how appreciating the good qualities of others can make you feel good. The colorful illustrations and a large variety of characters will have children deeply engaged in this story and will help kids develop an appreciation for their own unique qualities, as well as the positive traits of their friends and family members. This delightful story is highly recommended when teaching 4-8-year-olds how to deal with jealousy. Overall, an enjoyable read aloud that can lead to worthwhile discussion.
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About the Author
Anna Shuttlewood studied mural painting and fine arts at the National Academy of Arts in Bulgaria. She has since turned her talents to children’s illustration and designing greeting cards. This is the first book she has written. She lives in London.
I’m the Happiest, by Anna Shuttlewood, was reviewed by Jillian Sciacca. Discover more books like I’m the Happiest by following along with our reviews and articles tagged with Animals, Books On Jealousy, and Self-Acceptance.