Illustrated by Joshua Heinsz
4 stars
An engaging and fun way to talk about gender stereotypes. Told through rhythm and rhyme, a group of children show how fun it is to play how you want instead of worrying about how girls and boys are expected to play.
I loved seeing the creativity of the children at play. I really enjoyed that the book didn’t just show girls doing traditionally masculine things and boys doing traditionally feminine things. It’s a great representation of blending stereotypical activities to move beyond stereotypes (superhero at a tea party, jousting princess, football player with pompoms). A nice way of encouraging children to play what they like regardless of stereotypes and gender expectations.
The illustrations are bright and dynamic. They really pull the reader into the play.
The book seemingly works within the gender binary, focusing on boys and girls and does not specifically address gender identity. Through the text and illustrations, it encourages children to break down the barriers of gender stereotypes and gravitate toward what interests them.
A wonderful book that works well for reading aloud and has fantastic messages about doing what makes you happy.