Chocolate Me!
What’s inside...
The boy is teased for looking different than the other kids. His skin is darker, his hair curlier. He tells his mother he wishes he could be more like everyone else. And she helps him to see how beautiful he really, truly is. For years before they both achieved acclaim in their respective professions, good friends Taye Diggs and Shane W. Evans wanted to collaborate on Chocolate Me!, a book based on experiences of feeling different and trying to fit in as kids. Now, both men are fathers and see more than ever the need for a picture book that encourages all people, especially kids, to love themselves.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
2-6
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did the main character feel when others pointed out his differences? Have you ever felt the same way?
What does the main character learn about being unique? Why is it important to be proud of who you are?
How do friends and family help the main character embrace his identity?
Why is it important to celebrate everyone's differences? How can doing so make us better friends or classmates?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the book's topics, making sure to listen actively and validate their emotions.
Draw parallels between the main character’s experiences and your child's own life, which may help them relate more deeply to the story.
Discuss the importance of diversity and inclusivity, emphasizing the value of everyone's unique traits and qualities.
After reading, engage in activities that celebrate your child's own uniqueness, such as creating a 'What Makes Me Special' poster or book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Self-Acceptance
Explanation: The main character, feeling different because of his skin color and features, learns to embrace and celebrate his unique qualities through positive affirmations.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by recognizing and valuing their own unique traits, helping them develop a strong sense of self-esteem.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: The book illustrates the hurt caused by teasing and unkind words, encouraging readers to understand the feelings of others.
Real-World Application: Children learn to be mindful of their words and actions and the impact they have on their peers, fostering a more compassionate community.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: The protagonist overcomes emotional challenges and negative perceptions from his peers, showcasing the importance of resilience.
Real-World Application: This lesson equips children to face and overcome their own adversities and challenges in life, building a resilient mindset.
Example Lesson: Celebrating Diversity
Explanation: 'Chocolate Me!' highlights the beauty in diversity and encourages children to be proud of their heritage.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to appreciate and respect diverse backgrounds and cultures in their everyday interactions, promoting inclusivity.