A beautiful variety of childrens faces grace the cover and

pages of this picture book, and the opening lines state the premise: People come in many different shades. Not colors, exactly, but shades. The intent of the brief text is clear: Our skin is just our covering, like wrapping paper. And you cant tell what someone is like from the cover of their skin. Candid shots capture a variety of young children playing on beaches, in parks and playgrounds. Posed portrait photos also display an assortment of skin shades from cream and ivory to peach,

coffee, and cocoa. Filled with smiles and hugs, the pictures prove an upbeat confirmation of the books central idea. Message-driven but charming, this will enrich and spark discussions of diversity.