Without lingering on or dismissing how hurtful it can be to have adoptive relationships questioned, especially when one doesn’t look like one’s adoptive family, the story focuses on the siblings’ loving bond. AuYeung’s expressive illustrations cleverly work with the narrative to show how the children differ while highlighting how much they have in common. A sweet exploration of the familial similarities that matter. – Kirkus, 12/01/2024
About the Story
As a mom of two kids who look nothing alike, this book has been in my heart for a long time. I’m so thrilled that it is out in the world now.
And I’m so grateful for the heart and creativity of Pearl AuYeung. Her illustrations brought so much life and joy to the story. Learn more about her work and how she approached this story here.
Booklist
Two brothers are playing at the park when the ice cream truck arrives. Both run toward it, but the older brother arrives first and gets in line. When his younger brother joins him, the kid who is next in line complains, “No cuts!” The older brother explains, “He’s my brother,” but the grumbler denies it, saying, “Him?” The older brother understands that their skin color and hair texture are different, but he insists that the siblings are “nearly, exactly, almost” alike. Both prefer ice cream in sugar cones and both dislike crunchy peanut butter. After several more dubious examples of family traits (both love trampolines!), the siblings end the squabble by befriending the other boy and his little brother. While a disagreement is at the story’s center, when the older brother talks about his sibling’s experiences from infancy onward, he expresses great warmth and family pride. With a gently amusing text and lively digital illustrations of the boys’ interracial family, this tale of loyal brotherhood will surely bring back memories for caregivers and resonate with children, especially older siblings.
Simply Seven Interview
Read more about the book’s journey in this interview I did with Jena Benton.