The umbrella by Niki Foreman & Binny Talib

How we all try to fit in underscores this story as this person is so desirous to fit in, but despite whatever they do, they do not fit. They see someone else who also does not fit, and together they meet a third person who also does not fit. The three look at the mob under the umbrella, keeping them outside. One of their number suggests they get their own umbrella. And they do. But one decides this is not what they want either, and so moves outside the umbrella. Here they meet another in the same predicament, and they really want to fit in. Those inside the umbrella look at those outside, and most cannot see anyone, until one of their group sees them. Looking outside the umbrella means their eyes are opened and they can all come together.

Looking for their own place in the world, the group tries out being separated, try out being part of another group with their own umbrella, then putting it away to just be themselves. Fitting under the umbrella is an uncompromising metaphor for children wanting to feel part of the group, and this book succeeds in presenting the idea of fitting in.

Promoting the virtues of acceptance, kindness, and cooperation, the story extolls diversity within our community, of accepting that we are all different and should glory in these differences not sideline them.

The idea of an umbrella excluding some in our community is an interesting image to give to young children, their quick minds eager to pick up the notion being discussed.

They will really absorb the idea of out and in, of some accepted and others not, as they may have all had a similar experience. But the ideas of acceptance and kindness go hand in hand, as the children in the book all come together under the rainbow flag. 

Themes: Discrimination, Diversity, Kindness, Cooperation, Humour.

Fran Knight