I’m Not Scary
By Raahat Kaduji
Verdict:
A sweet book in the truest sense of the word, filled with apple pies, cake, and fine messages on friendship and connection.
What is it about?
Little Bat wants a friend, but the other forest animals are afraid when they see his shadow fly overhead. They call him a monster. That makes Little Bat sad. When Little Bat finds comfort in baking, the delicious scents entice somebody to come close enough to discover that maybe — just maybe — Little Bat is really not scary at all.
Our take:
This large-format picture book is perfectly sized for classroom reading. Its illustrations feature warm fall colors, friendly characters, and plenty of delectable treats. It also has sparkly gold foil on the cover, and the spreads often feature a cozy, comforting glow in their use of light.
Little Bat is sympathetic and sweet from the beginning, so readers and listeners will not find him scary, though they will understand from the pictures why the other characters might think he is a monster. In this way, even the most sensitive child will find himself or herself brave enough to wish the other characters in the story will become friends with Bat. This can lead to gentle discussions about what makes us afraid, how we can approach those we are afraid of, and when we should listen to our fears or overcome them. Also appealing: the Bat has a skill, and by sharing it he finds friends. This encourages children to speak up, take action, and share their abilities as a way to connect with others.
Perfect for:
This is an appealing story for fall, the spooky season, and for times when parents and teachers want to talk about what to do when we fear someone or something. It’s a gentle, comforting, and warmhearted book, offering thinking opportunities for both timid children and very bold children who might wonder why other children avoid them sometimes.
Conversation starters:
Why were the other animals afraid of Little Bat? Were you afraid of him? Why?
When we are afraid of someone, what can we do so we are not afraid? What should we say?
When someone is afraid of you, what could you do to show that you are not scary?
What kind of things do you do that other people might like, so you can be friends? Do you want to learn to do a fun new thing to share?
Little Bear went far into the forest, when all her friends warned her not to go far. What should we remember about going far alone?
All the animals were collecting delicious things. What season was it? Why were there so many things to collect? What season was coming next? What kind of lesson can we learn from the animals?
Would you like to live in a gnarly tree and bake pies?
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