RAIN BOY
by Dylan Glynn
Chronicle Books
Picture Book
ages 3 to 5
40 pages
A heartfelt picture book about differences, acceptance, and loving yourself for who you are.
Wherever he goes, Rain Boy brings wet—which means he's not very popular. Sun Kidd brings sunshine everywhere she goes, so everyone loves her. Only Sun Kidd sees what's special about Rain Boy. But when she invites him to her birthday party, disaster strikes, and Rain Boy storms. Now the world is nothing but rain. Will the other kids ever love Rain Boy for being himself? And. more importantly, can Rain Boy learn to love his rain? Debut author and illustrator Dylan Glynn's colorful and evocative illustrations color this story with all the emotions of the rainbow in this universal story of reaching out to those who look different from you, making new friends, and learning to love yourself.
• Important lessons on acceptance, bullying, self-reliance and empathy told in a beautifully illustrated, accessible story
• A great read-aloud book for families of children struggling to fit in and find their self-confidence
• Perfect book for educators, caregivers, and librarians to help with lessons on bullying, kindness, LGBQT themes, and friendship
Fans of One, The Big Umbrella, and Be Kind will find Rain Boy's striking artwork and positive message an important addition to their bookshelf.
MY TIDBITS
Storm clouds and gloomy weather are blown into a new light, which gives a lovely message of hope and rays of healthy self-esteem.
Rain Boy has it rough. While he tries to get along with everyone at school, no one ever seems to like having him around. Especially since he's always brings moisture. When Sun Kidd joins the class, she draws in new friends instantly with her sparkling warmth. Which makes Rain Boy even more alone than before. As Sun Kidd throws a part, Rain Boy hopes it will be his chance at some fun, but things don't run smoothly.
The two main characters in this book are simple yet clever. A rain cloud already sets many readers into a wet, heavier atmosphere, where the sun brings happiness and brightness. So, it's no problem for readers to sink right into the tale thanks to the familiar emotions already connected with the two sorts of weather. This also works nicely with the message, since rain clouds aren't really bad but have their positive, necessary and important aspects. No one wants just sunny weather, either.
The illustrations carry a very creative flair and steer clear from the usual exact lines and depictions. Rain Boy consists of a cloud with lines of raindrops forming his legs and arms. It's interesting to see see him in direct contrast with the very human students. Interestingly enough, Sun Kidd is illustrated pretty much as a normal, human girl...which my kids found a bit odd. The atmosphere does come across clear in every picture, and it's fun to flip through and enjoy the story that way alone.
As for the message, it comes across loud and clear. It's obvious that this book was written with an intended purpose, and the theme is brought across very bluntly—everyone is special in their own way and is important. Bullying or shutting others out isn't right, and everyone should be proud of who they are.
And here he is...
Dylan Glynn studied animation at Sheridan College in Oakville, Ontario, and La Poudrière in Valence, France. Dylan's work has been recognized by and exhibited in Society of Illustrators, American Illustration, Somerset House, and the Canadian Screen Awards. He is based in Toronto.
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