Chamelia

Booklist (April 1, 2011 (Vol. 107, No. 15)) Preschool-Grade 2. Illustrated with bright fabric-and-paper collages, this picture book brings a wry twist to the usual clique-outsider story. “Most chameleons like to blend in. But not Chamelia” begins the short, simple text. Chamelia prefers to stand out. And she does. She dances in the classroom, plays soccer in high heels and sequins, and rides her bike in dazzling, flowered ensembles. When she climbs onto the school bus in a long, trailing princess outfit, though, things get out of hand with her scowling classmates, and she finally learns that she can join in––and be herself at the same time. Most outsiders will recognize that becoming accepted by the popular crowd is harder than Chamelia makes it look. Still, children will easily respond to the hilarious illustrations of Chamelia’s teacher and classmates in tailored, bland outfits, feeling uncomfortable with prima donna Chamelia, who leaps around in elaborate costumes. A factual reminder that chameleons survive by changing and blending in closes this title, which will leave children talking about the rewards and challenges of being yourself.