7/10 ( )

This is a great book for teaching kids the importance of standing up for themselves. I think a great lesson can be learned / taught through this story.

Independent Reading Level: Grades (6th-9th)
Awards: Independent Publisher Book Award (2009), Nautilus Award (2009) ( )

When one of the colors is being bullied by another, "it takes One to stand up" and help. As the other colors also stand up to the bully, they become numbers too. Even the bully at last turns around. Lovely illustrations, kindness concepts with numbers and colors.

I love the book One by Kathryn Otoshi. Its universal messages of acceptance and anti-bullying are perfect for children of all ages. The main color, Blue, shares his feelings and relationships with other colors like friendly Yellow and mean Red. The use of colors and numbers as the characters makes it appropriate for pre-school units counting 1-7 and colors. Additionally, the illustrations are engaging for all levels of elementary school children. The discussion of feelings and emotions fits well with early elementary school. The bullying and acceptance theme makes it a great conversation starter with upper elementary & middle school students. One is a quick and enjoyable read-aloud. I would love to utilize this book in a future classroomm of mine. ( )