Call Me Gorgeous!
What’s inside...
Call Me Gorgeous! is a whimsical picture book that introduces readers to a unique creature with an amalgamation of features from various animals such as a porcupine’s spines, a crocodile’s teeth, a flamingo’s neck, and a toucan’s beak. Authored by Alexandra Milton, the book employs humorous text and stunning collage illustrations to celebrate diversity and the beauty of differences. It engages children through guessing games and laughter, encouraging them to appreciate the intricate beauty of the animal world.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
2-6
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think makes the animal in the book gorgeous? Can you think of any unique qualities your favorite animal has?
If you could create your own unusual animal, what features would you choose and why?
How do you feel when someone calls you gorgeous or gives you a compliment? Why do you think it's important to say nice things to others?
Can you think of a time when someone unique or different came to your school or neighborhood? How did you or others react to them?
What do you think this book is trying to tell us about how we see ourselves and others?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think creatively by asking them to draw their own 'gorgeous' animal inspired by the book. Discuss each chosen feature and what makes it special.
Discuss personal experiences where your child felt different and relate them to the animal’s journey in the book to instill empathy and understanding.
Praise your child’s responses to nurture their confidence in expressing their thoughts and feelings about the book’s themes.
Use the book’s illustrations to engage your child visually, asking them to describe what they see and how the colors and shapes make them feel.
Emphasize the message of inner beauty and uniqueness, reassuring your child that everyone is 'gorgeous' in their own way.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Diversity
Explanation: The book introduces a unique and imaginative animal that's a mix of various creatures, showcasing the beauty in differences.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and embrace the diversity in people around them, understanding that everyone’s unique qualities make them special.
Example Lesson: Self-Acceptance
Explanation: The mixed-up animal in the story expresses happiness and confidence in its unique appearance, demonstrating self-acceptance.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be confident in their own skin and be proud of their individuality, regardless of how they look or where they come from.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Imagination
Explanation: The fantastical animal encourages children to think outside the box and appreciate the limitless possibilities of imagination.
Real-World Application: Kids are motivated to use their creativity in play, art, and problem-solving, developing innovative thinking skills that are valuable throughout life.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: The story’s narrative allows children to see the world from the perspective of a unique creature that doesn’t fit typical categories.
Real-World Application: This can help kids develop empathy, promoting a deeper understanding and acceptance of people who might seem different.