My Shadow Is Pink, Written and Illustrated by Scott Stuart


From the Publisher:

"My Shadow is Pink is a beautifully written rhyming story that touches on the subjects of gender identity, self acceptance, equality and diversity.

Inspired by the author's own little boy, 'Shadow's' main character likes princesses, fairies and things 'not for boys'... he soon learns (through the support of his dad) that everyone has a shadow that they sometimes feel they need to hide.

This is an important book for a new generation of children (and adults alike) which exemplifies the concepts of unconditional love, respect and positive parenting.

Creates opportunity for open discussion and learning.
Highlights current themes of gender identity."

Text Features: 

  • Rhyming verse
  • Print features (interesting use of font to emphasize key words and phrase
  • Metaphor (shadow as "inner-most you")
Critical Literacy Suggestions:

Read & Discuss: 

  • Before reading, discuss the book's title and cover. What do you think this book will be about? Next, read the blurb and add onto your predictions. 
  • What does "things not for boys" mean? Are there such things? Why does the boy think what his shadow likes is "not for boys"?
  • The boy worries about not fitting in when he starts school but he is excited to dress up. How does this work out for him? 
  • How do the other children treat the boy when he arrives at school in a dress? Why? What harm does this cause? What could they have done differently to make the boy feel welcome?
  • How does the boy's dad change in the story? Why does he change?
  • What does the dad try to teach the boy about peoples' "inner-most you"?
  • How can being proud to be different help you "fit in"?    

Write & Act: 

  • Write about your shadow. Is it pink? Blue? Purple? Or some other color? What does it love?
  • Write about something you love that others might find surprising. Maybe it's something that's not often liked or done by others. Write about how it makes you feel. (Are you proud, shy or nervous to share it? Why do you think you feel that way? Is there a message in the book that could help you be proud of what you love?)
  • When you meet someone who seems different from you, think about how you can make them feel welcome (especially if they seem uncomfortable!). See what you can learn about them and what they love. Perhaps you'll have something in common! If not, you can just enjoy sharing what makes each of you unique. 

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