This is a solid, well-intentioned diversity book that does exactly what it sets out to do: give young kids a framework for talking about skin color in a positive, curious way. Karen Katz wrote it for her adopted daughter from Guatemala, and that personal connection shows in the warmth.

That said, it's not without criticism. Some reviewers—particularly people of color—find the white adoptive parent perspective uncomfortable, like the book is teaching kids to notice and appreciate brown skin from the outside rather than from lived experience. It's a fair critique, and worth considering alongside other diversity books written by authors of color.

The book itself is safe, sweet, and useful for families navigating these conversations with preschoolers and early elementary kids. It's a bit dated (2002) and very much a "message book" rather than a compelling story, so don't expect kids to request it over and over. But as a tool for opening dialogue? It works. Just pair it with other perspectives too.