Just the Way You Are by Pfister/Martens

Recommended for Grades 2 and 3

(Page last edited 10/09/2017)

• Title: Just the Way You Are
• Author: Pfister/Martens
• ISBN: 0735816158
• ISBN 13: 978-0735816152

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Description:

The animals are having a party and they all dream about looking different for the big event. Clever die-cuts offer tantalizing glimpses of each animals' imaginary transformation, then open to wonderfully whimsical double-page spreads-an elephant with a kangaroo's pouch, a lion with a toucan's wings and bright beak. Funny sights indeed, but in the end all the animal friends agree that they like each other just the way they are. Children will be reassured by this entertaining animal mix-and-match fantasy, which offers a warm and gentle affirmation of true friendship.

Review (From Amazon.Com):

Bestselling Rainbow Fish author Marcus Pfister again explores the issue of perception and acceptance in this nutty story about animals dissatisfied with their own appearances. A lion, a toucan, a chameleon, a kangaroo, and others repeat the same conversation over and over when asked if they're going to the party that night. Each doubts whether he will go, because he believes "no one cares whether I come or not." If, however, the Lion had a beak and wings like Toucan, or Elephant could hop like Kangaroo, or Hedgehog were as colorful as Chameleon, then everyone would admire them. Ultimately, of course, everyone realizes that they like each other just the way they are, and they party on, trunks, beaks, and manes intact.

Die-cut holes in the pages reveal glimpses of the hybrid creatures; turn the page to find vibrant two-page spreads of the fanciful animals. Pfister's grainy, rough-textured illustrations may appeal to a different audience from that of his sparkly fish books, but those who like the built-in message about friendship and self-acceptance--as well as the zany amalgamations of animals--will enjoy this simple, cyclical tale. (Ages 3 to 6) --Emilie Coulter

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