Mophead

The subtitle “How your difference makes a difference” sums this lovely book up perfectly. The message of being yourself and knowing what makes you special is one that should be shouted from the rooftops. Selina Tusitala Marsh has taken something very personal and made it a universal truth that all young people should share – be yourself, we’re not all meant to be the same.

The physical book is lovely to hold and read. The use of the black and red illustrations against the cream of the page is as pleasing to the eye as much as the words are pleasing to the mind. The cover with the big mop of hair is eye catching and a great hook into the book for younger readers.

It is an easy read but the simplicity of the words belies the sophistication of the message. In this day and age of media bombardment about what it means to be beautiful this book sends a clear message to young people everywhere, and especially to our Pasifika young women, that what makes you different is what also makes you special.

I highly recommend this book for school libraries and to anyone with a daughter.

Title: Mophead: How your difference makes a difference

Author & Illustrator: Selina Tusitala Marsh

Publisher: Auckland University Press

ISBN: 9781869408985

Format: Hardback

Date of Publication: 2019

Ages: Yr 5 to adults

Reviewer: Judith Hartstone, HOF English, James Cook High School, Auckland

How are you recommending this book: Highly recommended

Opening sentence: When I was 10 I was teased for having big hair.

You can buy this book here