I Am Lupe; Sela Ahosivi-Atiola, illustrated by Yani Agustina

Appearances do not define a person, sometimes we have to take a look inside to fully understand ourselves.

Born in the South Pacific, Lupe doesn’t look like the other girls at her Australian school. She has curly black hair like her dad, deep chocolate eyes like her mum, and brown skin that glistens under the sunlight. When her classmates ask questions, Lupe doesn’t have the answers. Mum does though. Lupe may not look like her peers but she is much more than just her appearance. She is a daughter, a big sister, a friend; She is kind, helpful, fearless and funny; She is brave and smart; She is special and beautiful. She is Lupe, and the world needs to know it…

Difficult questions lead to a better understanding of self, self-worth and true identity in an important picture book that is an essential one for families to read together. I Am Lupe is fantastic for so many reasons. Offering comfort and reassurances, encouraging understanding and acceptance, and exploring how a moment in time can rock a young person’s world, it is a joyous celebration of differences, of those qualities that make each and every one of us the individuals that we are, and of knowing that the world wants you exactly how you are.

Children love to know but sometimes that innocent and well-meaning search for answers can be the cause of great distress to others. ‘What are you?’ is the most dehumanising of questions and Sela Ahosivi-Atiola and Yani Agustina provide the most wonderful, uplifting and heartwarming of ripostes. In a world where snap judgements are all too often based on appearance, Lupe and her parents teach valuable lessons around the rich and complex nature of identity. Some things cannot be seen but it is those qualities within that truly define a person.

Gently told and with beautiful illustrations, this thought-provoking read with its important messages will resonate with anyone who has ever felt like an outsider, like they didn’t fit in or has ever had to deal with trying to explain what they are. Lupe’s kind-hearted and wise mum will encourage children to recognise everything that they are and will empower them to embrace all that is wonderful about themselves. For those children who have no issues with inclusivity, it is a valuable tool for encouraging empathy and understanding and highlights the need to celebrate differences and uniqueness.

A truly excellent and on-point exploration of belonging, heritage and discovering what makes you you.

Recommended for 3+.

With huge thanks to Hachette and Lothian for the copy I received in exchange for an honest review.