Spork by Kyo Maclear
"Just a bit pointy, just a bit round, just right."
At a very young age, we are taught how to navigate the world through structure and patterns. We learn about rules, order, and how everything fits together. We also started figuring out where others think we fit in (or don't).
For the multi-cultural child, this process can be particularly daunting. The initial realisation that they don't fit in society's set categories can be confusing and affect their concept of self very early on.
'Spork' beautifully explores the emotional journey multi-cultural children embark on, as they do through this process and articulates their inner thoughts and feelings simply and effectively. Written from the perspective of Spork, a half spoon and half fork, the story embraces individuality and offers young reads this thoughtful perspective:
"You are unique in your own way, so why fit in when you can stand out?"
Author Kyo Maclear was born in London, England to a British father (a foreign correspondent and documentary filmmaker) and a Japanese mother (a painter and art dealer), and moved to Toronto at the age of four. 'Spork' has won several awards including the 'Best Children's Book of the Year' and 'Outstanding Books for Young People with Disabilities'.
"...the enlightening storytelling and whimsical mixed-media illustrations will draw readers in, and adults will find the book to be a useful conversation starter for the topics of race, difference, and acceptance."
- School Library Journal, February 2011
"...her message of acceptance will resonate, particularly with parents."
-Booklist, September 2010
