Family is Family
Understanding the beauty of diverse family structures
Melissa Marr author Marcos Almada Rivero illustrator
Format:Hardback
Publisher:Nancy Paulsen Books
Published:5th Mar '24
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This heartwarming story explores the unique dynamics of families through the eyes of Little Chick, who embraces his loving family.
In Family is Family, readers are introduced to Little Chick, a young chick who embarks on a journey to school and observes the variety of families around him. As he walks, he notices that many of his peers are accompanied by traditional family structures, such as a mom and dad or siblings. However, Little Chick's family is unique; he has two moms and no siblings. This realization prompts him to reflect on the diversity of family dynamics, highlighting how every family is special in its own way.
Throughout his adventure, Little Chick's friend offers him a bear brother to borrow, but he politely declines. Little Chick is content being an only chick, embracing his individuality and the love that surrounds him. His observations lead him to appreciate the different ways families express their love and togetherness, whether they swim, fly, or share a meal. The story beautifully illustrates that love is the foundation of a family, regardless of its structure.
Ultimately, Family is Family celebrates the uniqueness of families and the bonds that tie them together. It encourages young readers to understand and appreciate the diversity in family forms, reinforcing the idea that what matters most is the love and support within a family unit. Little Chick realizes that he is exactly where he belongs, in a family that cherishes him for who he is.
"Marr provides a charming, individualistic addition to the 'every family is different' category of LGBTQIA+ picture books, avoiding bland generalization by also celebrating Chick’s strong feelings about both being himself and being an only child of two moms. The device of the kindhearted teacher’s note also draws attention to how gendered and heteronormative expectations often get unintentionally foisted from well-meaning spaces. Rivero’s digitally rendered pastels depict gem-toned animalia with wit and unique character, giving the cast an emotional authenticity and retro-postcard playfulness. . . . Unpacks the linguistic frictions and joyful belonging of queer families." --The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books
“When Chick faces the first day of school, he learns about different types of families and parents and how diversity should be embraced rather than a source of anxiety. . . . The journey shows Chick that every family is different in the makeup and number of its family members. At the end of the day when he asks his moms about their family, he learns that their structure is perfect for them and he is happy, calm, and loved. Marr (Bunny Roo, I Love You) captures the uncertainly of feeling different and seeking acceptance. Chick needs exposure to a variety of families to truly understand uniqueness is OK and to be celebrated. Rivero’s digital pastels show every image through a prismatic rainbow, reinforcing with a subtle touch the ‘pride’ behind each family and the overall narrative. The exaggerated and cartoonish character expressions are reminiscent of an updated P.D. Eastman. The topic makes for a gentle introduction to LGBTQIA+ topics and fosters an opportunity for discussion. For a hands-on manual or just a story-hour treat, here’s a tale where a child learns about diversity in an essential asset for all libraries: public, school, and home.” —School Library Journal
ISBN: 9780593462515
Dimensions: 260mm x 213mm x 9mm
Weight: 347g
32 pages