cover image Kaleidoscope of Kids

Kaleidoscope of Kids

Emma Damon, Fields Productions Sadie. Dial Books, $10.99 (16pp) ISBN 978-0-8037-1845-6

Diversity is the watchword in this cartoony catalogue of kids' characteristics. The first spread proclaims that ``Some people are tall,'' as a top-of-the-page flap unfolds twice to reveal a lofty lass indeed. Opposite, a girl is almost hidden by a flap depicting an array of sweets: ``Some people are short.'' And so it goes, as freckles, glasses and braces are noted as distinguishing facial embellishments; varieties in hair color, styles, length are observed; pastime preferences cited; etc. By checking the reflective surface on the book's inside back cover, youngsters can discover that ``everyone is special, including me!'' Damon's children have a winning goofiness, and the book's purpose is commendable; there are important lessons to be learned on its pages. Still, a certain repetition creeps in, and the overall effect is not especially distinctive. Ages 5-up. (June)