One of a Kind, Like Me/Único Como Yo is the first of a new series of diverse children’s books being issued by Blood Orange Press, dedicated to bringing diversity to children’s literature.
In One of a Kind, Like Me/Único Como Yo, first-time children’s book author Laurin Mayeno introduces us to Danny, a multiracial Latinx preschooler who wants to go to his school costume parade as a princess – so he and his mom head out in search of the perfect princess dress. As time runs out, the tension mounts: Will he find his dress in time? The book shows us a loving multicultural family, teacher, and friendships that embrace Danny for who he is.
Robert Liu-Trujillo draws the reader into Danny’s world with his charming illustrations and Teresa Mlawer retells the story beautifully in a Spanish translation that appears directly opposite the English text.
Serena Yates of Rainbow Book Reviews wrote, “There are very few children’s books that challenge gender stereotypes, but this one is a perfect example of what such books could look like. … The author has written Danny’s story based on what happened to her son, and he is a very lucky boy!”
Jean Hodges, National President of PFLAG said, “What a great way to show young children that they can be whomever or whatever they want to be. … I highly recommend this book to every primary, elementary educator and parents of that young princess!”
Ever since Mayeno’s son told her he wanted to dress up as a princess over 20 years ago, she has been learning about gender diversity and sharing what she has learned as an educator, writer, and self-taught filmmaker.
“When I was growing up as a mixed-race child, I didn’t see people who looked like me in books,” Mayeno says. “And, when my son Danny decided to dress up as a princess, I didn’t know other children like him. Danny started to realize he was different and felt very alone. I also felt very alone as a mother. I wanted a book where children and families like ours could see themselves reflected back, know that they are not alone, and know that they are beautiful.”
