Walsh, Melanie. (2002). My Nose, Your Nose. Boston, MA: HMH Books for Young Readers. After noticing differences between their own personal attributes, characters also discover a commonality between them for each of these distinct characteristics. Picture Book, JMM.
Thoughts: Overall, I felt the message behind this book was a great one for students, especially in the younger grades to learn. As children are very aware of who is around them, students tend to constantly compare themselves to their peers in the classroom. Unfortunately, if it is in terms of comparing academic performance, this does not always have a positive effect on students. I think however, that this picture book allows children to embrace their natural curiosity to explore the various attributes of themselves and of their classmates. It gives them a better sense of self and an acceptance of diversity. I loved how the author included commonalities amongst the characters because it helps children feel as if they belong. When they know that they share a characteristic, hobby, or interest with someone else, children will feel more comfortable with their company and environment. Encouraging children to look past their apparent differences and to find connections between one another is a great quality to instill in young minds.
Classroom Applications: Similar to Kostecki-Shaw’s Same, Same but Different picture book, this books sets the stage for many wonderful activities that celebrate individuality, yet commonality too. One in particular that I am doing in my classroom now is pairing students up and having them analyze their own personal features and interests. After reading this story aloud, it will be important to discuss how to be respectful of differences children find and to celebrate those qualities. Rather than making children feel insecure about their characteristics, it is essential that all students feel safe and free of any judgment. Once students are divided up into pairs, they will work together to find separate qualities they each possess and come up with a similarity they share that pertains to that distinct characteristic. For example, children’s responses may look something like Walsh’s idea: Daisy has short legs, while Kit has long legs, but they both kick hard in the swimming pool. In this lesson, children are required to think deeply with their partners and to ask critical questions that allow them to get to know each other on a more intimate level. Afterwards, children will illustrate their findings which can be put up on the bulletin board (at least that is what I have done with my class) as a way to respectfully share and celebrate their findings and be proud of who they are.
