Katerina Cruickshanks

‘Katerina’s wonderfully eccentric personality and theatricality shines through on every page where the kaleidoscopic illustrations help bring the whimsical nature of their character to life. What stands out about this book is the author’s choice to use non-binary pronouns for the main character, a rarity in children’s books. Because their identity is not a factor in the storyline, it represents the LGBTQIA+ community and instils inclusivity simply by celebrating people and their differences.’

-- Fiona Buckley * Irish Examiner *

‘This book is as colourful and vibrant as its central character, with beautiful ink-and-crayon illustrations that practically burst off the page. Using charming rhyming text, it is an entertaining read-aloud that will be enjoyed by children ages 3 and up.’

-- Angela Crocombe * Readings Kids *

‘A rollicking and dynamic rhyming story.’

* Armadillo *

‘A raucous, rhyming homage to a child who uses they/them pronouns and their outrageous personality … Throughout author/illustrator Gray-Barnett’s latest picture book, Katerina’s gender is refreshingly presented without commentary. Instead, Katerina’s boisterous personality and larger-than-life antics are the centre of the story … [Y]oung readers will be tickled by the kooky protagonist, rendered in scribbly, joyfully-coloured illustrations.’

* Kirkus Reviews *

‘Katerina read like a modern-day descendant of Sendak’s Rosie, also blessed with an outsized personality and flamboyant sense of style. The images were very dynamic; a two page-spread showing evidence of Katerina sowing chaos was especially fun … This celebratory story of a non-binary child in which that characteristic is not the sole focus of the book is refreshing and rare. Kids, families, and librarians looking for representation will enjoy this story.’

* Youth Services Book Review *

‘This book is glorious! Katerina Cruickshanks, pronouns they/their, is an adventure….This book is dedicated to everyone that has been told they are too much. It encourages the reader to be true to themselves regardless if that is in line with what others think you should be. Katerina is the unofficial spokesperson for living unapologetically. This book is written in rhyming verse and has a fun use of word choice that mimics Katerina’s eccentricities. The illustrations are colourful and whimsical.’

* @raisingalega